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Waitrose has reversed its determination not to offer compensated employment to an autistic man after initially saying he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had worked unpaid for several years.

In July, the young man's parent requested whether her adult child the individual could be given a job at the supermarket in Cheadle Hulme, but her proposal was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

On Thursday, rival chain Asda said it sought to give Tom compensated work at its Cheadle Hulme store.

Addressing the company's change of position, the parent commented: "We are going to evaluate the situation and decide whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to go back... and are having further discussions with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for the retailer said: "We'd like to see Tom resume, in paid employment, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the non-profit to facilitate this."

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

"We place great importance about supporting people into the employment who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Therefore, we enthusiastically received Tom and his care assistant into our Manchester location to learn the ropes and develop his abilities."

"We have policies in place to support volunteering, and are investigating the situation in this case."

Tom's mother explained she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had responded to her talking about her son's experiences.

The young man, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his commitment by store leadership.

"He donated extensive time of his energy purely because he sought inclusion, be helpful, and make a difference," commented his mother.

Frances commended and appreciated team members at the local supermarket for assisting him, adding: "They made him part of the team and were absolutely brilliant."

"I believe he was just under the radar - everything was working well until it became a headquarters matter."

Both individuals have been endorsed by Greater Manchester mayor the public figure.

He stated on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" management and promised to "help him to find another placement that functions".

The official declared the local government body "would encourage each company - including Waitrose - to participate to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with the parent, who broke the news of the alternative position on media outlets, the elected official stated: "Well done for raising awareness because we need a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his invitation to serve as a representative for the program.