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The supermarket has reversed its decision not to grant a paying position to an autistic man after initially saying he had to stop stacking shelves at the branch where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother asked whether her 28-year-old son the individual could be offered a position at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her application was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

This week, alternative retailer Asda announced it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Addressing the company's change of position, Frances commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to return... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A spokesman for the retailer stated: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in a paying position, and are working closely from his relatives and the non-profit to make this happen."

"We anticipate to welcome him again with us shortly."

"We are committed about helping individuals into the employment who might otherwise not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Cheadle Hulme branch to build skills and build his confidence."

"We have policies in place to support unpaid work, and are examining the circumstances in this instance."

Frances stated she had been "profoundly affected" by how the public had answered to her sharing her family's story.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his work ethic by managers.

"He contributed over 600 hours of his time exclusively because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," stated his mother.

Frances recognized and acknowledged team members at the local supermarket for helping him, stating: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

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

The family have been endorsed by regional leader the mayor.

He stated on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" handling and vowed to "help him to secure alternative employment that works".

The mayor declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "actively promotes all employers - such as Waitrose - to sign up to our newly established diversity program".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who shared information of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the elected official commented: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his offer to become an advocate for the campaign.