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The grocery retailer has reversed its ruling not to provide paid work to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to discontinue working at the store where he had donated his time for several years.

In July, the young man's parent inquired whether her family member her son could be provided a employment opportunity at the grocery store in Cheadle Hulme, but her application was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

On Thursday, alternative retailer the grocery chain announced it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Addressing Waitrose's U-turn, the parent stated: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for the retailer commented: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are seeking support from his relatives and the charity to do so."

"We hope to welcome him again with us very soon."

"We place great importance about assisting individuals into the job market who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have policies in place to support volunteering, and are examining what's happened in this case."

The parent stated she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had responded to her discussing her child's situation.

Tom, who has challenges with communication, was commended for his dedication by supervisors.

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

Frances praised and thanked employees at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for supporting him, stating: "They made him part of the team and were wonderfully accommodating."

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

Both individuals have been backed by local official Andy Burnham.

He wrote on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor stated the regional organization "would encourage all employers - including Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Discussing with the parent, who shared information of the employment opportunity on local radio, the Labour mayor commented: "Well done for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his invitation to serve as a representative for the campaign.