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The supermarket has overturned its ruling not to offer compensated employment to an autistic man after initially saying he had to cease stacking shelves at the store where he had volunteered for an extended period.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother asked whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be provided a job at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her application was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

Recently, alternative retailer Asda announced it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Reacting to the company's change of position, the parent said: "We are going to consider the offer and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'We are investigating'

A representative for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his relatives and the charity to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to have him return with us very soon."

"We care deeply about supporting workers into the workplace who might otherwise not be given a chance."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our local store to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to support volunteering, and are examining the situation in Tom's situation."

The parent said she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had answered to her discussing her family's story.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his dedication by store leadership.

"He donated over 600 hours of his effort exclusively because he sought inclusion, contribute, and make a difference," commented his mum.

Frances recognized and acknowledged staff at the local supermarket for assisting him, adding: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

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

The family have been endorsed by local official the mayor.

He stated on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and vowed to "help him to identify different opportunities that succeeds".

Burnham stated the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes each company - including Waitrose - to participate to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with the parent, who announced of the employment opportunity on local radio, the elected official said: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we require a major education initiative here."

She agreed to his offer to serve as a representative for the campaign.