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The supermarket has changed its ruling not to offer paid work to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to stop stacking shelves at the location where he had volunteered for several years.

Earlier this year, Frances Boyd inquired whether her 28-year-old son her son could be provided a employment opportunity at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her request was finally turned down by the company's corporate office.

This week, alternative retailer Asda stated it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having further discussions with the company."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for the retailer said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his family and the support organization to do so."

"We hope to welcome him again with us very soon."

"We care deeply about supporting people into the job market who might usually not be given a chance."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our Manchester location to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have procedures in place to support unpaid work, and are investigating the circumstances in this case."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how people had reacted to her sharing her son's experiences.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was commended for his commitment by store leadership.

"He gave extensive time of his effort exclusively because he wanted to belong, contribute, and create value," said his parent.

Frances commended and appreciated employees at the local supermarket for assisting him, noting: "They made him part of the team and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

Tom and his mum have been supported by regional leader Andy Burnham.

He stated on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and committed to "help him to find another placement that functions".

The mayor said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established inclusion initiative".

Discussing with Frances, who broke the news of the alternative position on media outlets, the public figure commented: "Well done for bringing attention because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She accepted his proposal to serve as a representative for the campaign.