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Waitrose has overturned its determination not to grant a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to stop stacking shelves at the store where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent asked whether her 28-year-old son her son could be given a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her proposal was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.

Recently, alternative retailer the grocery chain said it sought to give Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.

Responding to the company's change of position, the parent said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to go back... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A representative for Waitrose said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."

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

"We care deeply about helping people into the job market who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to build skills and develop his abilities."

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

Frances explained she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had reacted to her discussing her son's experiences.

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

"He gave over 600 hours of his energy solely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and create value," said his parent.

Frances praised and thanked employees at the local supermarket for helping him, noting: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

Tom and his mum have been supported by regional leader the mayor.

He wrote on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "support him to identify different opportunities that works".

The mayor stated the local government body "would encourage all employers - like Waitrose - to register to our recently launched Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with the parent, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the public figure commented: "Good on you for highlighting the issue because we need a significant public information effort here."

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