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The grocery retailer has overturned its determination not to provide compensated employment to an individual with autism after originally indicating he had to stop stacking shelves at the branch where he had volunteered for an extended period.

During the summer, the young man's parent asked whether her adult child Tom Boyd could be offered a employment opportunity at the retail establishment in Cheadle Hulme, but her proposal was ultimately declined by the supermarket's headquarters.

Recently, rival chain Asda said it was interested in providing Tom employment hours at its local branch.

Addressing the company's change of position, the parent said: "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."

'Conducting an inquiry'

A representative for the supermarket chain stated: "We'd like to welcome Tom back, in a paying position, and are requesting assistance from his family and the charity to facilitate this."

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

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

"Therefore, we enthusiastically received Tom and his helper into our Cheadle Hulme branch to gain experience and develop his abilities."

"We have procedures in place to facilitate community service, and are examining the situation in Tom's situation."

Frances explained she had been "deeply moved" by how people had answered to her talking about her son's experiences.

The individual, who has specific communication needs, was recognized for his commitment by supervisors.

"He contributed extensive time of his time exclusively because he sought inclusion, make a difference, and make a difference," said his mother.

Tom's mother recognized and acknowledged staff at the Manchester branch for helping him, noting: "They welcomed him and were wonderfully accommodating."

"I believe he was just under the radar - everything was working well until it went to head office."

The family have been endorsed by regional leader the public figure.

He posted on online platforms that Tom had received "truly terrible" handling and vowed to "assist him to secure alternative employment that functions".

The official stated the local government body "would encourage every business - like Waitrose - to sign up to our recently launched diversity program".

Conversing with Tom's mother, who broke the news of the employment opportunity on media outlets, the elected official commented: "Good on you for raising awareness because we require a significant public information effort here."

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