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The grocery retailer has overturned its ruling not to provide compensated employment to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to discontinue volunteering at the branch where he had volunteered for four years.

In July, Frances Boyd inquired whether her family member her son could be provided a employment opportunity at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her request was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.

On Thursday, rival chain the grocery chain said it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Addressing the company's change of position, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having ongoing talks with the company."

'We are investigating'

A representative for Waitrose commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his relatives and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We hope to welcome him again with us very soon."

"We are committed about assisting individuals into the employment who might usually not be given a chance."

"As such, we gladly accepted Tom and his care assistant into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and develop his abilities."

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

Frances stated she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had responded to her discussing her child's situation.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his work ethic by supervisors.

"He donated over 600 hours of his energy solely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and have an impact," stated his mother.

Frances recognized and acknowledged staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I think he was just under the radar - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

The family have been backed by local official Andy Burnham.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and vowed to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The official said the regional organization "would encourage all employers - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who announced of the alternative position on BBC Radio Manchester, the Labour mayor stated: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his offer to serve as a representative for the campaign.