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Waitrose has reversed its decision not to grant paid work to an autistic man after previously stating he had to discontinue working at the branch where he had volunteered for an extended period.

In July, Frances Boyd asked whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be given a position at the supermarket in Greater Manchester, but her application was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

This week, alternative retailer Asda stated it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its local branch.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, Tom's mother commented: "We are going to think about it and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to go back... and are having additional conversations with the company."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer stated: "We'd like to have Tom return, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We expect to have him return with us shortly."

"We care deeply about supporting people into the employment who might usually not be provided employment."

"As such, we gladly accepted Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to learn the ropes and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate community service, and are investigating what's happened in this case."

The parent said she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her sharing her child's situation.

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

"He gave over 600 hours of his effort solely because he desired community connection, contribute, and have an impact," stated his parent.

Tom's mother praised and thanked staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I believe he was just flying under the radar - everything was working well until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been endorsed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

He posted on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and promised to "assist him to find another placement that functions".

Burnham stated the local government body "actively promotes all employers - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Conversing with Frances, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure stated: "Good on you for bringing attention because we require a major education initiative here."

She agreed to his proposal to act as a spokesperson for the program.