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The grocery retailer has changed its ruling not to provide compensated employment to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to cease stacking shelves at the store where he had volunteered for several years.

In July, Frances Boyd inquired whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be given a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her application was eventually rejected by Waitrose head office.

Recently, competing supermarket the grocery chain said it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Addressing the company's change of position, the parent said: "We are going to consider the offer and choose whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to return... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'Looking into the matter'

A representative for the retailer stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in compensated work, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the charity to do so."

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

"We place great importance about assisting people into the job market who might otherwise not be given a chance."

"As such, we gladly accepted Tom and his support worker into our local store to build skills and develop his abilities."

"We have policies in place to enable community service, and are reviewing the circumstances in Tom's situation."

Tom's mother said she had been "deeply moved" by how the public had responded to her talking about her child's situation.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was praised for his work ethic by store leadership.

"He contributed extensive time of his energy exclusively because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and have an impact," stated his parent.

Frances commended and appreciated staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, noting: "They welcomed him and were absolutely brilliant."

"I feel he was just flying under the radar - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

Both individuals have been backed by local official Andy Burnham.

He stated on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and committed to "assist him to identify different opportunities that works".

The official said the regional organization "would encourage all employers - like Waitrose - to participate to our brand new inclusion initiative".

Conversing with Frances, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on BBC Radio Manchester, the public figure said: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we require a major education initiative here."

She accepted his proposal to serve as a representative for the campaign.