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The grocery retailer has changed its ruling not to grant paid work to an individual with autism after initially saying he had to discontinue volunteering at the store where he had donated his time for an extended period.

During the summer, Frances Boyd asked whether her 28-year-old son Tom Boyd could be offered a job at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her request was finally turned down by Waitrose head office.

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

Addressing the company's change of position, Frances stated: "We are going to evaluate the situation and determine whether it is in what's best for our son to resume working... and are having further discussions with the supermarket."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A representative for the retailer stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are seeking support from his loved ones and the support organization to do so."

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

"We place great importance about helping workers into the workplace who might otherwise not be provided employment."

"As such, we warmly welcomed Tom and his support worker into our Manchester location to build skills and enhance his self-assurance."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate community service, and are investigating the situation in this instance."

Tom's mother said she had been "overwhelmed" by how people had answered to her discussing her family's story.

Tom, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his work ethic by supervisors.

"He donated extensive time of his time purely because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and make a difference," stated his mother.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged staff at the local supermarket for helping him, noting: "They included him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I think he was just not sufficiently noticed - operations were proceeding normally until it reached corporate level."

Both individuals have been endorsed by regional leader the public figure.

He stated on online platforms that Tom had received "completely unacceptable" treatment and committed to "assist him to secure alternative employment that succeeds".

Burnham stated the regional organization "would encourage every business - such as Waitrose - to participate to our brand new inclusion initiative".

Speaking with Frances, who shared information of the alternative position on media outlets, the Labour mayor commented: "Well done for highlighting the issue because we need a major education initiative here."

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