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The supermarket has changed its decision not to grant paid work to an autistic man after originally indicating he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, Frances Boyd requested whether her family member the individual could be offered a employment opportunity at the supermarket in the Manchester area, but her application was ultimately declined by the company's corporate office.

On Thursday, rival chain Asda said it sought to give Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Addressing the supermarket's reversal, Tom's mother said: "We are going to consider the offer and choose whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for Waitrose said: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his family and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We anticipate to have him return with us very soon."

"We care deeply about supporting people into the workplace who might typically not be offered opportunities."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and build his confidence."

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate community service, and are investigating the situation in this case."

Frances stated she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had responded to her discussing her son's experiences.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his commitment by managers.

"He donated extensive time of his effort purely because he desired community connection, make a difference, and have an impact," said his mum.

Frances praised and thanked team members at the Manchester branch for helping him, stating: "They included him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

The family have been endorsed by regional leader Andy Burnham.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "deeply concerning" management and committed to "help him to find another placement that functions".

The mayor said the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage all employers - including Waitrose - to register to our recently launched diversity program".

Speaking with the parent, who announced of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure stated: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She consented to his invitation to act as a spokesperson for the campaign.