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Waitrose has changed its decision not to provide a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to discontinue stacking shelves at the location where he had donated his time for several years.

Earlier this year, Frances Boyd inquired whether her 28-year-old son her son could be given a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her request was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

On Thursday, competing supermarket Asda announced it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Responding to Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for the supermarket chain commented: "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 expect to see him back with us shortly."

"We place great importance about assisting workers into the job market who might usually not be provided employment."

"Consequently, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our Manchester location to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to support volunteering, and are investigating the situation in this instance."

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

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his energy purely because he desired community connection, contribute, and have an impact," said his parent.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged employees at the local supermarket for supporting him, stating: "They made him part of the team and were absolutely brilliant."

"I believe he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it became a headquarters matter."

The family have been endorsed by regional leader the public figure.

He posted on X that Tom had received "deeply concerning" management and promised to "assist him to secure alternative employment that works".

Burnham said the regional organization "would encourage all employers - such as Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched diversity program".

Discussing with the parent, who announced of the alternative position on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure commented: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his proposal to serve as a representative for the program.