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The supermarket has reversed its ruling not to provide a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to cease volunteering at the store where he had worked unpaid for four years.

During the summer, Tom's mother inquired whether her adult child her son could be provided a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her proposal was eventually rejected by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, alternative retailer the grocery chain said it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Addressing the supermarket's reversal, the parent stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having additional conversations with the company."

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for the supermarket chain stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his relatives and the support organization to make this happen."

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

"We care deeply about assisting people into the job market who might typically not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our local store to learn the ropes and build his confidence."

"We have procedures in place to enable volunteering, and are examining the circumstances in this case."

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

The young man, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his work ethic by supervisors.

"He contributed more than six hundred hours of his effort solely because he wanted to belong, make a difference, and have an impact," stated his mum.

The parent commended and appreciated team members at the local supermarket for assisting him, adding: "They made him part of the team and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it went to head office."

The family have been supported by regional leader the mayor.

He stated on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and vowed to "support him to find another placement that works".

The mayor stated the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to register to our recently launched inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of the alternative position on local radio, the elected official stated: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we must have a huge awareness campaign here."

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