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The grocery retailer has changed its decision not to offer a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to discontinue stacking shelves at the branch where he had worked unpaid for four years.

During the summer, the young man's parent requested whether her family member the individual could be provided a position at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her application was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

Recently, rival chain Asda announced it sought to give Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Reacting to the company's change of position, Tom's mother said: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A representative for the retailer stated: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are working closely from his family and the charity to do so."

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

"We place great importance about supporting people into the job market who might usually not be provided employment."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our local store to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to support volunteering, and are investigating the situation in Tom's situation."

Tom's mother explained she had been "deeply moved" by how people had responded to her sharing her child's situation.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was commended for his dedication by store leadership.

"He donated extensive time of his energy exclusively because he wanted to belong, be helpful, and create value," said his mum.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged employees at the Manchester branch for assisting 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 endorsed by local official Andy Burnham.

He wrote on online platforms that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and vowed to "assist him to find another placement that succeeds".

The official stated the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes all employers - including Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on local radio, the Labour mayor stated: "Good on you for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

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