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The supermarket has reversed its determination not to grant a paying position to an neurodivergent person after previously stating he had to cease stacking shelves at the store where he had donated his time for four years.

Earlier this year, Tom's mother requested whether her adult child her son could be offered a position at the grocery store in Greater Manchester, but her proposal was ultimately declined by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, competing supermarket the grocery chain stated it sought to give Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

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

'Looking into the matter'

A spokesman for Waitrose said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in compensated work, and are seeking support from his family and the non-profit to facilitate this."

"We hope to see him back with us shortly."

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

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

"We have guidelines in place to facilitate volunteering, and are reviewing what's happened in this instance."

Tom's mother explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how the public had responded to her discussing her family's story.

The individual, who has limited communication skills, was recognized for his dedication by supervisors.

"He gave over 600 hours of his energy exclusively because he desired community connection, make a difference, and have an impact," stated his mother.

Frances commended and appreciated team members at the Manchester branch for assisting him, stating: "They welcomed him and were exceptionally supportive."

"I believe he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it reached corporate level."

Tom and his mum have been supported by local official the public figure.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and promised to "assist him to secure alternative employment that succeeds".

The mayor said the local government body "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to sign up to our brand new diversity program".

Discussing with the parent, who broke the news of Tom's Asda job offer on media outlets, the public figure said: "Congratulations for bringing attention because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

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