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Waitrose has reversed its decision not to provide paid work to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to cease stacking shelves at the store where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

During the summer, Tom's mother asked whether her adult child the individual could be provided a position at the grocery store in the Manchester area, but her proposal was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

Recently, rival chain the grocery chain said it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having ongoing talks with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in paid employment, and are working closely from his family and the non-profit to make this happen."

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

"We place great importance about supporting individuals into the employment who might otherwise not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our local store to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate volunteering, and are reviewing what's happened in Tom's situation."

Frances said she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had reacted to her talking about her son's experiences.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his commitment by store leadership.

"He donated more than six hundred hours of his energy solely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and make a difference," stated his mum.

Tom's mother commended and appreciated employees at the Manchester branch for assisting him, stating: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."

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

Tom and his mum have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

He posted on X that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and vowed to "assist him to secure alternative employment that functions".

Burnham declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to register to our brand new diversity program".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the elected official stated: "Well done for raising awareness because we require a significant public information effort here."

She agreed to his invitation to act as a spokesperson for the campaign.