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Waitrose has changed its decision not to grant compensated employment to an individual with autism after previously stating he had to cease working at the location where he had worked unpaid for four years.

Earlier this year, the young man's parent requested whether her adult child her son could be provided a position at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her application was finally turned down by the supermarket's headquarters.

On Thursday, competing supermarket the grocery chain announced it wanted to offer Tom employment hours at its Manchester location.

Reacting to Waitrose's U-turn, the parent stated: "We are going to think about it and determine whether it is in the optimal outcome for Tom to resume working... and are having additional conversations with Waitrose."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for the retailer stated: "We'd like to have Tom return, in paid employment, and are requesting assistance from his family and the non-profit to do so."

"We expect to see him back with us very soon."

"We are committed about assisting people into the employment who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his care assistant into our local store to build skills and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to support unpaid work, and are investigating the situation in this case."

The parent explained she had been "profoundly affected" by how the public had answered to her talking about her son's experiences.

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

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

The parent praised and thanked staff at the Manchester branch for supporting him, noting: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - everything was working well until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been supported by regional leader the mayor.

He wrote on social media that Tom had received "truly terrible" treatment and committed to "support him to secure alternative employment that functions".

Burnham declared the local government body "strongly urges each company - such as Waitrose - to participate to our brand new Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Discussing with Frances, who shared information of the employment opportunity on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official commented: "Good on you for raising awareness because we require a huge awareness campaign here."

She agreed to his offer to become an advocate for the program.