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The grocery retailer has reversed its determination not to grant a paying position to an autistic man after previously stating he had to cease stacking shelves at the branch where he had worked unpaid for several years.

During the summer, Frances Boyd requested whether her family member her son could be provided a position at the retail establishment in Greater Manchester, but her application was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, competing supermarket Asda said it wanted to offer Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A spokesman for the retailer commented: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are working closely from his relatives and the support organization to do so."

"We anticipate to have him return with us in the near future."

"We are committed about helping workers into the workplace who might typically not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have procedures in place to enable unpaid work, and are reviewing what's happened in this case."

Tom's mother stated she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had reacted to her sharing her child's situation.

The young man, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his energy solely because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and have an impact," stated his parent.

Frances praised and thanked staff at the local supermarket for helping him, stating: "They made him part of the team and were absolutely brilliant."

"I believe he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it reached corporate level."

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

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and promised to "help him to find another placement that functions".

The official stated the regional organization "strongly urges all employers - such as Waitrose - to sign up to our brand new diversity program".

Conversing with Frances, who broke the news of the alternative position on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official commented: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we must have a major education initiative here."

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