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Waitrose has reversed its decision not to provide compensated employment to an autistic man after initially saying he had to cease volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for an extended period.

During the summer, Tom's mother asked whether her family member Tom Boyd could be given a job at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her request was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

Recently, competing supermarket Asda said it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, Tom's mother said: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for the supermarket chain said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in paid employment, and are seeking support from his family and the charity to facilitate this."

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

"We place great importance about helping workers into the employment who might otherwise not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our local store to build skills and build his confidence."

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

Tom's mother explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had responded to her talking about her family's story.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his work ethic by managers.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his time solely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and create value," stated his parent.

Frances recognized and acknowledged team members at the local supermarket for assisting him, noting: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been supported by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He stated on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and committed to "support him to identify different opportunities that functions".

Burnham stated the local government body "would encourage all employers - such as Waitrose - to participate to our brand new inclusion initiative".

Discussing with the parent, who broke the news of the alternative position on media outlets, the Labour mayor said: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we must have a major education initiative here."

She accepted his proposal to become an advocate for the program.