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Waitrose has reversed its determination not to offer a paying position to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to discontinue working at the location where he had worked unpaid for several years.

In July, the young man's parent requested whether her adult child her son could be offered a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

This week, alternative retailer the grocery chain stated it was interested in providing Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, Frances stated: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having further discussions with the supermarket."

'Looking into the matter'

A official for the supermarket chain commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his family and the support organization to do so."

"We hope to see him back with us shortly."

"We place great importance about helping individuals into the employment who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"Therefore, we gladly accepted Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have guidelines in place to enable community service, and are reviewing the circumstances in this case."

Frances stated she had been "deeply moved" by how people had reacted to her sharing her family's story.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his dedication by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his energy exclusively because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and create value," said his mum.

The parent recognized and acknowledged team members at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for supporting him, noting: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I believe he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and promised to "support him to find another placement that succeeds".

Burnham said the regional organization "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to participate to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of the alternative position on local radio, the Labour mayor stated: "Good on you for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his offer to act as a spokesperson for the initiative.