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The supermarket has reversed its decision not to provide compensated employment to an autistic man after originally indicating he had to stop working at the store where he had volunteered for an extended period.

During the summer, Tom's mother requested whether her family member the individual could be provided a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in the Manchester area, but her application was eventually rejected by the company's corporate office.

This week, alternative retailer the grocery chain said it was interested in providing Tom paid shifts at its Manchester location.

Addressing the supermarket's reversal, Tom's mother said: "We are going to consider the offer and decide whether it is in Tom's best interests to resume working... and are having additional conversations with the supermarket."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A official for Waitrose stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his loved ones and the charity to make this happen."

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

"We are committed about helping people into the job market who might usually not be offered opportunities."

"Consequently, we enthusiastically received Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to build skills and develop his abilities."

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

Frances stated she had been "deeply moved" by how individuals had responded to her discussing her family's story.

The young man, who has challenges with communication, was praised for his dedication by managers.

"He donated extensive time of his energy solely because he wanted to belong, contribute, and have an impact," commented his parent.

Frances commended and appreciated team members at Waitrose's Cheadle Hulme store for supporting him, noting: "They included him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - all was running smoothly until it went to head office."

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

He posted on X that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and vowed to "help him to find another placement that functions".

The mayor declared the Greater Manchester Combined Authority "would encourage all employers - such as Waitrose - to participate to our newly established Bee Neuroinclusive Code of Practice".

Speaking with Tom's mother, who announced of the employment opportunity on BBC Radio Manchester, the elected official stated: "Congratulations for raising awareness because we require a significant public information effort here."

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