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Waitrose has reversed its ruling not to grant paid work to an autistic man after initially saying he had to discontinue working at the location where he had volunteered for an extended period.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother inquired whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be given a position at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her request was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

This week, competing supermarket Asda said it was interested in providing Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, Frances commented: "We are going to consider the offer and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to return... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his family and the non-profit to do so."

"We anticipate to have him return with us shortly."

"We care deeply about assisting workers into the workplace who might typically not be offered opportunities."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to learn the ropes and enhance his self-assurance."

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

The parent explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

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

"He contributed extensive time of his time exclusively because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," commented his mother.

Frances recognized and acknowledged employees at the Manchester branch for helping him, stating: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I believe he was just under the radar - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor the mayor.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and vowed to "help him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage all employers - such as Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established diversity program".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the public figure commented: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

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