USO DEPLOYMENT AGREEMENT – PART TIME EMPLOYEE SCOPING EXERCISE

The purpose of this LTB is to advise Branches, Representatives and members that as agreed within the USO deployment agreement there is the opportunity for c.6,000 part time employees to increase their contracted hours up to full time. This will mean that it provides an ongoing opportunity for part time employees to increase their contracted hours going forwards.

A USO Delivery Scoping Exercise will open today and the attached joint communication has been issued to confirm that the process has been launched on the People App via Robin for delivery employees to express their interest in the following options:

1. Increasing part-time (PT) contracted hours where available at your current office.
2. Increasing part-time (PT) contracted hours and voluntarily moving to another office where there is a vacancy.
3. Moving to another office on a voluntary basis where there is a vacancy.

The USO Delivery Scoping Exercise will be open until Friday 29^th May. Taking part simply means expressing an interest in one or more options to support the wider planning for USO deployment. Likewise, it is not a binding commitment for colleagues or Royal Mail, it is to understand employees’ preferences.

In addition, the business have confirmed that additional information will be shared on PDA messages, TV screens and via Work Time Listening Learning (WTLL) brief.

As such the above communications will ensure all PT employees have the ability to participate in the scoping exercise and we would ask that all Postal Branches ensure the USO Delivery Scoping Exercise is brought to the attention of all members in Delivery Offices.

Any enquiries relating to the content of this LTB should be directed to the Outdoor Department, email address: pharacz@cwu.org.

Yours sincerely,

Martin Walsh                                                                                      Tony Bouch
Deputy General Secretary (Postal)                                             Assistant Secretary

LTB 147.26 USO Delivery Scoping Exercise

LTB 147.26 Att 1 Joint Communication – National Scoping Exercise in Delivery

View Online

Sun Safety RMG Communication Issued 11^th May

This week, Royal Mail Group have issued a SHE (Safety, Health and Environment) Huddle covering Sun Safety as we approach the summer months and as members on delivery and those who work outdoors for Royal Mail and Parcelforce face sunny and hotter weather.

The SHE Huddle (FY26 021) on Sun Safety, attached, highlights the following key messages:

1. Cover Up – Wear long, loose clothing to keep the sun off your skin. Your uniform is made from a special fabric to protect against ultraviolet radiation.
2. Protect your head – Don’t forget your head, face, ears and neck. Wear the wide brim hat that’s part of your uniform – it’s specially treated to protect against the sun. Remember to use sunglasses with UV protection.
3. Take breaks in the shade – Come out of the sun when you have the chance, especially during the most powerful ultraviolet periods.
4. Use sun cream – SPF 30 (Sun Protection Factor) or higher on any exposed skin; apply it half an hour before going outside, put plenty on and reapply it frequently.
5. Be skin safe – Report mole changes (size, shape, colour, itching or bleeding) or any other concerns about your skin to your doctor as soon as possible – don’t put it off, early treatment is important.

The RMG Huddle also covers information issued by Cancer Research UK that 86% of melanoma skin cancer cases are preventable. This statistic highlights the importance of sun safety and the potential for early detection and treatment to significantly improve outcomes for melanoma patients. Cancer Research UK further highlights the benefit of individual awareness and the importance of regular ‘skin self-examinations’.

Importantly, the Huddle also confirms that: ‘If you have a medical condition that can be exacerbated by heat, please make your manager aware’. This is a key message, and CWU members are reminded of the following advice:

• Any individual who may be at increased risk in extreme heat due to age, underlying health conditions or taking certain medications should speak to their manager to discuss whether any duty adjustments are required in the event of a MET Office ‘Yellow Warning’ (and/or higher MET Office warnings).
• For individuals covered under the Equality Act and with a known disability, a required duty adjustment needs to be undertaken in line with and recorded on the Disability Risk Assessment Form.
• Colleagues who are new or expectant mothers also face an increased risk when working in extreme heat and should equally approach their manager. There is a separate Risk Assessment for these individuals.
• These duty adjustments need to be made with the individual’s agreement and recorded on the Health Passport or relevant Risk Assessment.
• The use of the Health Passport should supplement and accompany the need to also undertake the relevant Risk Assessment. The use of the Health Passport does not replace the direct need to also undertake a ‘Person Specific’ Risk Assessment (disability, young person, new or expectant mother).
• For members who require these measures, it is vitally important that they also seek CWU support and assistance.

Area Safety Reps (ASRs) and Workplace Safety Reps Actions: 

Area and Workplace Safety Representatives are reminded to:

• Work with Operational Managers and SHE Team Management to raise awareness about Sun Safety amongst all members who work outdoors across Royal Mail Group.
• Ensure that the RMG Severe Weather Guidance is followed and that SWMAs (Severe Weather Managers Assessments) are carried out as necessary and against MET Office warnings on heat. It is strongly recommended that pre-planning activity should start now, with all managers/PiCs (Person in Charge) familiarising themselves with the full Severe Weather Guidance and SWMA process in order to ensure that they are prepared for high summer temperatures.
• Ensure that individuals who may be at increased risk in extreme heat due to age, underlying health conditions, who take certain medications, and new or expectant mothers are aware that new or further duty adjustments may be needed to support them in the event of a MET Office ‘Yellow Warning’ (and/or higher warnings) for heat. These duty adjustments need to be made with the individual’s agreement and recorded on the Health Passport and relevant Risk Assessment Form.

To further assist in promoting the Sun Safety message, also attached are the following:

• RMG/CWU Poster – 5 workers a day get skin cancer
• RMG/CWU Stay Safe in the Sun z-card leaflet
• CWU Heat Illness Guide
• CWU Sun Smart Poster

Further communications covering Sun Safety will be issued in due course, but where Branches and Safety Reps require any additional information on the above, or for any other enquiries in relation to this LTB, these should be referred to the DGS(P) Department at hford@cwu.org or acorbett@cwu.org.

Yours sincerely,

Martin Walsh
Deputy General Secretary (Postal)

LTB 146-26 – Sun Safety RMG Communication Issued 11th May

RMG_CWU Poster 5 workers a day get skin cancer

SHE Huddle FY26 021 Sun Safety

RMG_CWU-Stay-Safe-in-the-Sun-z-card-leaflet-1

CWU Heat Illness Guide – v2 2025

CWU Sun Smart Poster – v2 2025

View Online

Royal Mail: Collective Plan Spring Newsletter and Pensions Presentation at Postal Conference

Branches and Representatives are advised that the Collective Plan Spring Newsletter (copy attached) has now been sent to members electronically.  Branches are encouraged to remind members of the Collective Plan they should register for the Member Self-Service (MSS) Portal via www.rmcollectiveplan.com/member-self-service for an overview of benefits built up so far, to nominate beneficiaries and check annual benefit statements.

Collective Plan Executive Team – Availability at Conference

Members of the Collective Plan Executive Team (totally independent from Royal Mail) will be available at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) from Tuesday next week to answer any questions Branches or Reps may have in regard to the Collective Plan (note they will not be able to provide any information regarding the other Royal Mail pension schemes including the RMPP and RMSPS).  Please look out for posters signposting the Collective Plan Executive Team’s whereabouts in the BIC.

Pensions Presentation – Tuesday 12^thMay at the BIC 

There will be a presentation on the Collective Plan including a Q&A session on Tuesday from 2pm-3pm which will be led by the DGS(P) and myself and will also involve the Collective Plan Executive Team.  Further details will be provided by the Chair during Conference that morning.

If you have any queries in relation to this LTB, please contact Samantha Nicholas – snicholas@cwu.org or Heidi Maughan at hmaughan@cwu.org

Yours sincerely

Andy Furey 

Assistant Secretary 

Attachment 1: LTB 145.26 RM – Collective Plan Newsletter and Pensions Presentation

Attachment 2: Attachment to LTB 145.26 Royal-Mail-Newsletter

View Online

Royal Mail: PFSL Pay Negotiations 2026 – Joint Statement 

Further to LTBs 067/26 and 089/26 dated 5^th and 25^th March respectively. Branches and Reps with PFSL members are advised that pay negotiations have been continuing and on Wednesday we met with Neil Chaplain, Managing Director RME, Hannah Hadfield, Senior HRBP, and James Brockbank, Senior IR Manager in pursuance of our claim.

Negotiations are progressing in a positive way, and we are optimistic that an Agreement can be reached during the next couple of meetings.  PFSL management are acutely aware of our key policies and are working towards meeting our aspirations where possible.  The following Joint Statement has been agreed to update our members and to reassure them that negotiations are ongoing and progress is being made:

We are writing to provide a joint update on pay discussions for CWU represented grades within PFSL.

Following the CWU’s submission of its 2026 pay claim, discussions have been constructive, and progress is being made towards reaching an agreement.

Both parties are currently reflecting on the position reached to date, with plans to meet again before the end of the month. Our shared aspiration is to conclude a mutually agreeable pay settlement at the earliest opportunity.

We will provide a further update as soon as we are in a position to do so.

The final Agreement reached will be backdated to 1^st April 2026. 

Further developments will be reported following Postal Executive consideration.

Yours sincerely,

Andy Furey
Assistant Secretary 

Attachment: LTB144.26 – Royal Mail PFSL Pay – Joint Statement

View Online

World Ovarian Cancer Day – 8^th May

World Ovarian Cancer Day 2026 is observed globally on May 8, focusing on awareness, early detection, and equitable care for women affected by ovarian cancer.

World Ovarian Cancer Day, established in 2013 by the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about ovarian cancer, promoting early detection, and supporting patients and their families. In 2026, the observance will take place on May 8, uniting over 200 partner organisations worldwide to amplify women’s voices and highlight the need for timely diagnosis, equitable access to care, and prioritisation of ovarian cancer globally. 

Theme and Focus

The theme for 2026 is “#NoWomanLeftBehind”, emphasising the importance of ensuring that every woman, regardless of background or location, receives timely diagnosis, treatment, and support. The campaign addresses barriers such as lack of awareness, delayed diagnosis, limited healthcare access, and social or economic challenges, which often result in late-stage detection and poorer outcomes.

How to Participate

Spread Awareness: Share information on social media, blogs, or community events about ovarian cancer symptoms and early detection. 

Support Fundraising: Participate in or donate to events supporting ovarian cancer research and patient care. 

Raise Importance: Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent killer” because early symptoms are subtle and frequently overlooked, leading to late-stage diagnosis. Globally, it is the 8th most common cancer and cause of death among women, with incidence highest in Asia and Europe. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, making awareness campaigns like World Ovarian Cancer Day crucial for saving lives. 

By participating in World Ovarian Cancer Day 2026, individuals and organisations contribute to a global effort to ensure no woman is left behind in the fight against ovarian cancer. 

For more information and support, visit:

Ovarian Cancer Action web page at: 

World Ovarian Cancer Day – May 8 | Ovarian Cancer Action

Target Ovarian Cancer web page at:

Target Ovarian Cancer

World Ovarian Cancer Coalition web page at:

World Ovarian Cancer Day – World Ovarian Cancer Coalition

This LTB is shared on behalf of CWU Central Services.

If you have any questions or need any further information, please contact:

Jamie McGovern FRSPH MIIAI 

CWU Health & Safety Policy Assistant at jmcgovern@cwu.org

LTB 139 26 World Ovarian Cancer Day – 8th May

View Online

Mental Health Awareness Week – 11 – 17 May 2026 on the Theme Of ‘Action’

Mental Health Awareness Week will run from Monday 11 May until Sunday 17 May 2026. The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 is “Action,” emphasizing taking initiative-taking steps to support mental health for yourself, others, and the wider community.

Purpose

While awareness is important, this theme highlights practical actions and personal responsibility in promoting mental well-being. It encourages individuals, communities, and organisations to take concrete steps to reduce stigma, support mental health, and foster caring environments.

Focus Areas

For Yourself: Engage in activities that enhance your own mental well-being and resilience. This could include mindfulness, seeking help if needed, or adopting healthy routines.

For Someone Else: Promote positive mental health in your surroundings by offering support, creating psychologically safe spaces at home, in schools, or workplaces, and spreading awareness through conversation or social platforms.

For All of Us: The theme calls on broader society and policymakers to ensure mental health is prioritised and supported at a structural level, creating inclusive, supportive communities and workplaces.

Participation and Activities

Wear It Green Day: A designated day for wearing green to show support and start conversations about mental health. Wear it Green Day | Mental Health Foundation

Community and Workplace Engagement: Organising campaigns, discussions, or workshops to raise awareness and encourage action for mental well-being.

Education and Advocacy: Sharing knowledge, attending training, or using available resources to promote understanding and early intervention.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 goes beyond recognition—it is about taking meaningful action to improve mental health, foster empathy, and build supportive communities.

For information and resource materials to help you with your arrangements for Mental Health Week, visit the Mental Health Foundation website here: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/mental-health-awareness-week

Samaritans

For people in distress and urgently needing someone to talk to, Samaritans will listen, will not judge, or tell a person what to do and will offer help, support, and guidance 24/7. Members can call them any time, day, or night for FREE on 116 123.

Non-judgemental listening is a crucial form of support, as recent MHFA England research highlighted the critical role psychological safety plays in workplace performance. When employees are fearful of judgement or consequences, innovation slows, mistakes go unchallenged, and wellbeing suffers. With one in seven employees (15%) already admitting to making more mistakes due to stress and fear.

Mental Health Awareness Week free webinars

There are over one hundred webinars taking place throughout May on the theme of Mental Health & wellbeing, two free webinars that have been shared several times on CWU Mental Health First Aider networks are shown below.

Mental Health, Neurodivergence and What Organisations Get Wrong Tickets, Tuesday 12 May • 12 – 13 GMT+1 | Eventbrite

Free: Mental Health Awareness Week Webinar Session – Mind BLMK

Attachments: 

• Mental Health UK – Mental Health Awareness Week Poster 1
• Mental Health UK – Mental Health Awareness Week Poster 2
• MHFA England – 10 keys to happier living workplace poster

This LTB is shared on behalf of CWU Central Services.

If you have any questions or need any further information, please contact:

Jamie McGovern FRSPH MIIAI 

CWU Health & Safety Policy Assistant at jmcgovern@cwu.org

LTB 138 26 MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK 2026

MHFA England 10 Keys to Happier Living workplace poster

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 take action poster

Resources for Mental Health Awareness Week | Mental Health Foundation

View Online

CWU CONFERENCE 2026 – SECURITY/CREDENTIALS

Branches are reminded that credentials and voting cards and any further Standing Order Reports will be available to pick up from the Windsor Hall Foyer at the Bournemouth International Centre from 3.00pm – 6.00pm on Saturday 9^th May 2026.

It is important that Branches try and collect them on Saturday due to the enhanced security at the BIC from Sunday 10^th Mayas all those entering the building will need some form of accreditation from the start of conference.

Branches also need to be aware that the venue have requested that bag checks take place throughout the duration of conference so therefore please ensure that bags are kept to a minimum and delegates give themselves enough time to get into the venue prior to conference and this is taken into consideration as queues may form.   The doors open each day at 08.15am.

Branches are also reminded that speakers cards need to be completed and returned prior to conference to enable the information to be input into the system.    If this has not been done please speak to Angela Niven by email to aniven@cwu.org

Yours sincerely

Dave Ward
General Secretary

26LTB142

View Online

CWU CONFERENCE 2026 – TELECOM AND FINANCIAL SERVICES STANDING ORDER REPORTS

Please find attached the following:

• TFS SOC Report Supplementary No.1
• TFS SOC Report Supplementary No.2

Any enquiries regarding this Letter to Branches should be addressed to Angela Niven or sent to aniven@cwu.org

Yours sincerely

Dave Ward
General Secretary

26LTB141

TFS 2026 – SOR No.1

TFSE 2026 – SOR No.2

View Online

CWU CONFERENCE – NEW AND YOUNG DELEGATES BRIEFING – SATURDAY 9^TH MAY 2026

This is to advise that there will be the usual new delegates briefing session taking place on Saturday 9^th May at 6.00 pm in the Solent Hall at the Bournemouth International Centre.

The event will be hosted by the President, Mick Kavanagh and Andy Mercer, Vice President.  The aim is to give those delegates who are new to conference the opportunity to understand how conference works and to ask any questions they may have.   There will also be the opportunity to stand at the rostrum and speak into the microphone to help delegates feel more confident about speaking on a motion.    Branches are therefore asked to encourage new and young delegates to attend this session – it should last no longer than 30 minutes. Any enquiries to this Letter to Branches should be addressed to Angela Niven on aniven@cwu.org or call CWU HQ on 020 8971 7237.

Yours sincerely

Dave Ward
General Secretary

26LTB140

View Online

CWU Conference 2026 – Standing Orders Reports

Please find attached the following for the General and Postal Conferences:

• General Conference Standing Orders Report Supplementary No.1
• General Conference Standing Orders Report Supplementary No.2
• Postal Conference Standing Orders Report No. 3

Any enquiries regarding this LTB should be addressed to Angela Niven by emailing conferences@cwu.org.

Yours sincerely,

Dave Ward
General Secretary

26LTB135

GC 2026 – SOR No 1 GC 2026 – SOR No 1

GC 2026 – SOR No 2

Postal 2026 – SOR No 3

View Online