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The supermarket has overturned its ruling not to grant a paying position to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to discontinue volunteering at the location where he had donated his time for an extended period.

During the summer, the young man's parent inquired whether her family member Tom Boyd could be offered a job at the retail establishment in Greater Manchester, but her application was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, competing supermarket Asda said it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Reacting to the supermarket's reversal, the parent stated: "We are going to think about it and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to return... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A spokesman for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in compensated work, and are working closely from his loved ones and the charity to do so."

"We hope to welcome him again with us in the near future."

"We are committed about supporting individuals into the workplace who might typically not be provided employment."

"As such, we enthusiastically received Tom and his care assistant into our Cheadle Hulme branch to build skills and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate community service, and are investigating the circumstances in Tom's situation."

Tom's mother said she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had responded to her discussing her son's experiences.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his dedication by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his energy solely because he wanted to belong, contribute, and make a difference," stated his mum.

The parent praised and thanked team members at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for helping him, adding: "They included him and were absolutely brilliant."

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

Both individuals have been supported by regional leader the mayor.

He stated on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" management and committed to "assist him to find another placement that functions".

Burnham said the regional organization "actively promotes each company - like Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched diversity program".

Speaking with the parent, who announced of the employment opportunity on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official stated: "Well done for bringing attention because we must have a major education initiative here."

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