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Waitrose has changed its ruling not to offer a paying position to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to stop stacking shelves at the location where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, Frances Boyd requested whether her adult child her son could be given a job at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her application was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

This week, competing supermarket the grocery chain announced it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, Tom's mother stated: "We are going to think about it and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to resume working... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are requesting assistance from his relatives and the charity to make this happen."

"We expect to welcome him again with us shortly."

"We are committed about helping people into the workplace who might usually not be given a chance."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our local store to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate community service, and are examining the circumstances in this instance."

The parent explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had reacted to her discussing her child's situation.

The individual, who has challenges with communication, was praised for his dedication by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his effort solely because he sought inclusion, contribute, and make a difference," stated his mum.

Frances praised and thanked team members at the local supermarket for assisting him, noting: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

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

He posted on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and committed to "assist him to secure alternative employment that succeeds".

The mayor declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "strongly urges each company - like Waitrose - to participate to our brand new diversity program".

Conversing with Frances, who announced of the employment opportunity on local radio, the public figure commented: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we must have a significant public information effort here."

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