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The supermarket has reversed its decision not to provide compensated employment to an autistic man after initially saying he had to cease working at the store where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

During the summer, Tom's mother requested whether her family member her son could be offered a job at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her proposal was finally turned down by the company's corporate office.

On Thursday, alternative retailer the grocery chain announced it wanted to offer Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Responding to the company's change of position, the parent commented: "We are going to think about it and decide whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having further discussions with the company."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for the supermarket chain stated: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are working closely from his relatives and the non-profit to do so."

"We expect to see him back with us in the near future."

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

"As such, we gladly accepted Tom and his helper into our local store to gain experience and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to enable community service, and are reviewing what's happened in Tom's situation."

Frances stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had reacted to her discussing her family's story.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was commended for his work ethic by managers.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his time solely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and have an impact," said his parent.

The parent recognized and acknowledged team members at the Manchester branch for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

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

The family have been supported by local official the public figure.

He stated on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and committed to "help him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who shared information of the employment opportunity on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official said: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we require a major education initiative here."

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