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The grocery retailer has changed its determination not to provide compensated employment to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to stop volunteering at the location where he had worked unpaid for several years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent inquired whether her adult child the individual could be given a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

Recently, alternative retailer Asda announced it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Frances commented: "We are going to consider the offer and choose whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'We are investigating'

A official for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are working closely from his loved ones and the charity to do so."

"We anticipate to have him return with us in the near future."

"We are committed about helping workers into the employment who might typically not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to enable volunteering, and are investigating the situation in Tom's situation."

Tom's mother explained she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

The individual, who has challenges with communication, was recognized for his dedication by store leadership.

"He contributed extensive time of his time purely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and make a difference," commented his mum.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged employees at the Manchester branch for helping him, adding: "They included him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" management and promised to "support him to secure alternative employment that succeeds".

The mayor declared the local government body "actively promotes every business - such as Waitrose - to participate to our brand new diversity program".

Discussing with Tom's mother, who broke the news of the alternative position on BBC Radio Manchester, the Labour mayor said: "Well done for raising awareness because we require a major education initiative here."

She consented to his invitation to become an advocate for the campaign.