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The grocery retailer has overturned its decision not to offer paid work to an autistic man after originally indicating he had to stop stacking shelves at the branch where he had worked unpaid for an extended period.

In July, the young man's parent inquired whether her family member the individual could be offered a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her application was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

Recently, competing supermarket Asda said it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its Manchester location.

Reacting 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 additional conversations with the supermarket."

'We are investigating'

A representative for Waitrose stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in compensated work, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the support organization to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to see him back with us very soon."

"We place great importance about supporting workers into the job market who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we gladly accepted Tom and his care assistant into our Cheadle Hulme branch to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to support community service, and are investigating what's happened in Tom's situation."

The parent stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had answered to her discussing her son's experiences.

The young man, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his work ethic by store leadership.

"He gave over 600 hours of his energy purely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and make a difference," commented his mother.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged employees at the Manchester branch 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 went to head office."

Both individuals have been backed by regional leader the mayor.

He posted on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" handling and promised to "help him to secure alternative employment that works".

Burnham stated the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage each company - such as Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Discussing with Frances, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the Labour mayor said: "Good on you for bringing attention because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

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