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The supermarket has changed its ruling not to provide paid work to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to discontinue stacking shelves at the branch where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

During the summer, Frances Boyd requested whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be provided a position at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

This week, competing supermarket Asda said it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A official for the retailer said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in paid employment, and are working closely from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to see him back with us shortly."

"We are committed about assisting individuals into the workplace who might typically not be given a chance."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to support unpaid work, and are reviewing what's happened in this case."

Frances explained she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her sharing her son's experiences.

The young man, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his commitment by managers.

"He donated over 600 hours of his energy exclusively because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and create value," said his mother.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged employees at the local supermarket for helping him, stating: "They made him part of the team and were absolutely brilliant."

"I believe he was just under the radar - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

Tom and his mum have been supported by local official Andy Burnham.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and promised to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor stated the local government body "strongly urges each company - like Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established diversity program".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure commented: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we need a significant public information effort here."

She accepted his offer to act as a spokesperson for the program.