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Waitrose has overturned its determination not to grant paid work to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to stop volunteering at the branch where he had volunteered for four years.

In July, Frances Boyd inquired whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be provided a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was eventually rejected by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, rival chain Asda stated it was interested in providing Tom compensated work at its local branch.

Responding to the supermarket's reversal, Frances commented: "We are going to consider the offer and choose whether it is in Tom's best interests to return... and are having ongoing talks with Waitrose."

'We are investigating'

A representative for Waitrose said: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the non-profit to do so."

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

"We are committed about assisting workers into the workplace who might usually not be given a chance."

"Therefore, we warmly welcomed Tom and his care assistant into our Cheadle Hulme branch to build skills and develop his abilities."

"We have policies in place to facilitate unpaid work, and are reviewing what's happened in this case."

The parent said she had been "profoundly affected" by how individuals had answered to her discussing her child's situation.

Tom, who has limited communication skills, was praised for his work ethic by managers.

"He gave extensive time of his time purely because he wanted to belong, contribute, and create value," commented his mum.

Frances praised and thanked staff at the local supermarket for supporting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it went to head office."

The family have been backed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

He posted on X that Tom had received "deeply concerning" management and promised to "support him to secure alternative employment that works".

The official said the local government body "would encourage each company - like Waitrose - to participate to our newly established inclusion initiative".

Discussing with Tom's mother, who announced of the alternative position on local radio, the elected official stated: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we require a significant public information effort here."

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