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The supermarket has changed its decision not to grant compensated employment to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to stop volunteering at the store where he had volunteered for four years.

During the summer, Tom's mother asked whether her family member the individual could be provided a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

This week, rival chain the grocery chain said it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, Frances stated: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the retailer commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are working closely from his family and the non-profit to do so."

"We expect to see him back with us very soon."

"We are committed about assisting people into the job market who might typically not be given a chance."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our local store to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to facilitate unpaid work, and are examining the situation in this case."

Frances explained she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had reacted to her sharing her child's situation.

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was commended for his commitment by store leadership.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his time exclusively because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and make a difference," stated his parent.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged staff at the local supermarket for assisting him, stating: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I feel he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it became a headquarters matter."

Both individuals have been backed by local official the public figure.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" treatment and committed to "help him to identify different opportunities that succeeds".

The official declared the regional organization "strongly urges all employers - including Waitrose - to sign up to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with Frances, who shared information of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the elected official stated: "Good on you for raising awareness because we need a significant public information effort here."

She accepted his proposal to become an advocate for the initiative.