Core Reps Programme: September – December 2021

Introduction
Please be advised of our next schedule of reps and activists courses for the period September – December 2021.  The courses will be delivered by our Further Education Providers using various online platforms.

Background
The CWU is committed to providing high quality, comprehensive and accessible training (core) programmes for all representatives and activists as well as lifelong learning for members.  

The venues or ways in which these can be delivered are:

• Residentially (where students attend a venue and remain onsite for the duration of the course)
• Locally (where students attend on a daily basis at a venue closer to where they live e.g. a CWU owned Learning Centre; an employers’ premises; an FE providers premises or privately owned property e.g. hotel/community centre
• Virtually (Google Classroom; Teams; Zoom)

Rationale
The decision to continue with online (virtual) delivery for the first quarter of the Academic Year (September – December 2021) has not been taken lightly and does not erode the commitment previously given to provide residential education in the future.

There are a number of factors that have informed our decision.  These include:

• Our partner FE providers resource limitations post pandemic and a duty of care to risk assess venues where they have tutors delivering courses
• Government guidance that further lifting of restrictions is still under review with potential for further delays to restriction lifting, localised lock-downs and travel constraints
• Sister trade unions where tutors are organised advising that their preference is to proceed cautiously regarding classroom courses
• Continuing advice that if it is possible to work from home, to do so

All of the above is under continual review and we are in regular dialogue with FE partners.

IMPORTANT – MANDATORY FAIR & EQUAL COURSE

The mandatory “Fair & Equal in the CWU” Course includes a pre-course element of activities which reps MUST have concluded successfully before attending the scheduled part of the course.  

If the pre-course activity is not completed, the representative will be advised that they are unable to proceed to the full day tutor led course.

Courses in EnglandDate 2021CourseCut-off dateSept 13^th – 17^thIntermediate Health & Safety Part 131^st JulySept 20^th – 24^thIntroduction to Health & Safety Part 131^st JulySept 27^th – Oct 1^stEssential Skills Part 17^th AugOct 4^th – 8^thPostal Agreements & Procedures14^th AugOct 6^thFair & Equal in the CWU14^th AugOct 11^th – 15^thEqual Rights Part 221^st AugOct 18^th – 20^thMental Health Awareness28^th AugOct 25^th – 29^thUnion Learning Reps Part 24^th SeptNov 1^st – 5^thIntermediate Health & Safety Part 211^th SeptNov 8^th – 12^thIntroduction to Health & Safety Part 218^th SeptNov 15^th – 19^thEssential Skills Part 225^th SeptNov 24^thFair & Equal in the CWU2^nd Oct

Courses in Northern IrelandDateCourseCut-off dateSept 20^th – 24^thEssential Skills Part 131^st JulySept 27^th – 1^stPostal Agreements & Procedures7^th AugOct 6^th – 7^thFair & Equal in the CWU (2 DAYS)14^th AugOct 11^th – 15^thIntroduction to Health & Safety Part 121^st AugOct 25^th – 29^thUnion Learning Reps Part 14^th SeptNov 9^th – 11^thMental Health Awareness18^th SeptNov 22^nd – 26^thEssential Skills Part 22^nd OctNov 24^th – 25thFair & Equal in the CWU (2 DAYS)2^nd Oct

Courses in ScotlandDateCourseCut-off dateAug 30^th – Sept 3^rdEssential Skills Part 2 (Rescheduled)17^th JulySept 6^th – 10^thIntermediate Health & Safety Part 124^th JulySept 13^th – 17^thEssential Skills Part 124^th JulyOct 6^thFair & Equal in the CWU14^th AugOct 18^th – 20^thMental Health Awareness28^th AugOct 25^th – 29^thUnion Learning Reps Part 14^th SeptNov 8^th – 12^thIntermediate Health & Safety Part 218^th SeptNov 15^th – 19^thPostal Agreements & Procedures25^th SeptNov 22^nd – 26^thEssential Skills Part 22^nd OctNov 22^ndFair & Equal in the CWU2^nd Oct

Courses in WalesDateCourseCut-off dateSept 20^th – 24^thEssential Skills Part 131^st JulySept 27^th – 1^stPostal Agreements & Procedures7^th AugOct 6^thFair & Equal in the CWU14^th AugOct 11^th – 15^thIntroduction Health & Safety Part 121^st AugOct 25^th – 29^thUnion Learning Reps Part 14^th SeptNov 8^th – 10^thMental Health Awareness18^th SeptNov 22^nd – 26^thEssential Skills Part 22^nd OctNov 24^thFair & Equal in the CWU2^nd Oct

Application Process

Authorised applications must be received by the cut-off dates. 

Please see attached a video guide for Branch Secretaries on how to apply for courses.

IT, Infrastructure and learning differences

Having tested online delivery of samples of both accredited and unaccredited courses, it is crucial that the student is set up appropriately and in good time before the training commences.

The learner must preferably have access to a good PC / laptop.  Tablets can be used but have some limitation in our experience.  Attending training courses using a mobile phone will not be allowed.

There must be a stable internet connection from the learning is taking place.

Colleges will also be in contact before the course to advise of any additional requirements.

We would appreciate Branches / ULRs assistance in ensuring any applicants are prepared in line with the above points.  If any reps encounter difficulties getting set up with IT equipment in preparation for course attendance, please advise their Branch Secretary, Union Learning Rep or the Equality, Education & Development as soon as possible.

Additionally, upon application; please ensure that we are aware in good time of any adjustments that may need to be arranged such as issues relating to dyslexia or sight / hearing differences.

Release & Notice

Paid release should normally apply where the union is recognised and / or in line with any existing agreements.

Please forward any enquiries relating to this LTB to courseadmin@cwu.org in the first instance.

Yours sincerely,

Kate Hudson
Head of Equality, Education & Development

21LTB 260 – Core Reps Programme September – December 2021

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Royal Mail – Provision of New Supply Branded/Refillable 750 ml Water Bottles For Outdoor Workers: “Staying Hydrated”

Introduction & Background

LTB No. 434/2020 issued on 28 August 2020 reported on the Union’s claim and representations for the provision of water bottles for the outdoor workforce and our campaign on protecting members working outside during heatwave conditions and on communicating the extremely important issue of staying hydrated at all times whilst undertaking manual work.

As reported in LTB 434/20 Royal Mail agreed to provide water bottles to CWU members and last year an ‘interim’ supply of 65,000 refillable water bottles were made available for offices to order.

A permanent long-term solution has now been progressed to a conclusion with the provision of ‘durable, Royal Mail branded, refillable 750 ml water bottles now becoming universally available’.

Royal Mail, having at long last agreed to our request for the provision of water bottles for the outdoor workforce, has also agreed to jointly campaign on the importance of staying hydrated at all times and these developments are welcomed. This is an important health and safety issue when carrying out a manual job, walking many miles outdoors – especially in hot, sunny weather conditions, when temperatures are high.

Ordering The New Water Bottles

The water bottles are readily available on the Uniform Ordering Portal, ordered against the individual’s wearer profile and are available for those in Delivery and Driver job roles.

Any Management only enquiries can be directed to Sam Dixon, National Uniform & Print Manager: Email: sam.dixon@royalmail.comMobile:- 07553 365925.

Area Health and Safety Reps and Workplace Safety Reps Actions:

Area and Workplace Health and Safety Representatives are requested to ensure that firstly, Delivery Office members order their water bottles in preparation for hot weather, secondly, working with Operational and SHE Team Management, raise awareness about sun safety and dehydration amongst outdoor delivery members and thirdly, ensure that Severe Weather Risk Assessments are carried out in hot, heatwave weather conditions. Any failures and non-compliance should be reported to senior management, recorded on health and safety inspections and reported to auditors in order that it can be recorded in the Unit’s ‘Integrated Audit’ when carried out.

The Health, Safety and Environment Department will also continue to press Royal Mail HQ to ensure that in future, Severe Weather Risk Assessments are carried out in hot, heatwave weather, to avoid dehydration, sunburn, skin damage, heat exhaustion and sun stroke and so protect the outdoor delivery workforce.

The Importance and Health Benefits of Good Hydration: 

Good Hydration means getting the right amount of water before, during, and after work. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates the joints and helps muscles and joints work better. It promotes better cardiovascular health and helps transport nutrients to give you energy and keep you healthy. If you’re not hydrated, your body can’t perform at its highest level. Water keeps organs functioning properly. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood.

The Dangers of Dehydration:  

Dehydration can cause heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heatstroke and can reduce the amount of blood in the body, which can put strain on the heart and cause shock – a dangerous decrease in blood pressure, which can have serious health consequences.

Attachment:

See attached Image of the new water bottles.

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

21LTB259 Royal Mail – Provision of New Supply Branded Refillable 750 ml Water Bottles For Outdoor Workers – Staying Hydrated

Document1

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Average Pay on Annual Leave (Holiday Pay) in Royal Mail Group – Branch Ballot Timetable

Further to LTB 245/21 issued on the 17^th June 2021, as advised listed below is the timetable for the Branch Ballot on the National Agreement for Average Pay on Annual leave (Holiday Pay) in Royal Mail Group.

Colleagues should note that this ballot is being conducted solely by email.

Ballot Paper Dispatched via email on Monday 28^th June 2021.

Ballot Opens Monday 28^th June 2021.

Ballot Closes at midday Friday 16^th July 2021.

Ballot Result announced Friday 16^th July 2021.

Completed ballot papers should be returned to elections@cwu.org, signed by the Branch Secretary and should include the date the branch mandate meeting took place.

Hopefully the advance notification of the timetable will give Branches adequate time to plan and hold their mandate meetings.  The Department are in the process of currently finalising a Branch/Representatives briefing document on the details of the Average Holiday Pay Agreement which we trust will assist colleagues with their meetings and any questions they may be asked by members.

The Postal Executive are recommending acceptance of the agreement and I would urge all Branches to ensure that you return your completed Ballot Paper by the time and date above.

Any enquiries in relation to the content of this LTB should be addressed to the DGS(P) Department.

Yours sincerely,

Terry Pullinger

Deputy General Secretary (Postal)

21LTB257 – Average Pay on Annual Leave (Holiday Pay) in Royal Mail Group – Branch Ballot Timetable

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DAVE EDMONDS – FORMER POSTAL PERSONAL ASSISTANT OUTDOOR

It is with sadness that I write to inform you that Dave Edmonds, former Postal Personal Assistant Outdoor, passed away peacefully on the 15^th June.

Dave joined the then UPW on commencing employment with the GPO in 1961.

In early 1980 Dave was appointed Personal Assistant to the Postal Assistant Secretary Outdoor and retired in January 1994 after 13 years serving four National officers.

At this sad time our thoughts are of course with Dave’s family and friends and on behalf of the CWU, I wish to convey our deepest sympathy and condolences.

We will forward details of Dave’s funeral arrangements in due course.

Any enquiries on the content of this LTB please forward to jdunn@cwu.org

Yours sincerely

Dave Ward

General Secretary

21LTB256 DAVE EDMONDS FORMER POSTAL PERSONAL ASSISTANT

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Royal Mail Group – Drive Carefully Around Vulnerable Road Users Road Safety Initiative (Cyclists, Horse Riders & Pedestrians)

The Royal Mail Group Safety Health and Environment Team’s National Road Safety Manager has today launched a summer driving, ‘drive carefully around vulnerable road users communication initiative which the CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department is supporting.

During periods of summer good weather, drivers can expect to see more vulnerable road users using the roads. There will be more cyclists, and on rural roads you are also more likely to encounter horse riders and pedestrians in the road.

Drivers must remember that these road users have just as much right to use the roads as motorists, but that they are far more vulnerable to injury in the event of a collision. By following these simple rules, drivers can help to keep them safe and avoid collisions:

1. Anticipate – expect to see vulnerable roads users on or around the roads. This is particularly important on rural roads where they might be just around a blind bend. Beware when pulling out of junctions, as cyclists are often moving much faster than you might expect.
2. Be patient – don’t overtake until you can pass safely, and don’t overtake for the sake of it. If you are about to turn off yourself then it’s usually best to stay behind. Remember that cyclists and horse riders are permitted to ride in pairs and that it is often safer for everybody if they do.
3. Give space – When passing you should provide as much space as possible, and an absolute minimum of 1.5m. Cyclists in particular may wobble or change line to avoid a drain or pothole, and drivers need to account for this when passing. If there is traffic coming the other way, then you may not be able to pass.
4. Pass slow – when you aren’t surrounded by a metal box it is scary to have vehicles passing you at speed and horses can also react badly to fast moving traffic. Pass cyclists at a sensible speed and keep your speed below 15mph when passing horses.
5. Use the ‘Dutch-Reach’ method – when getting out of the vehicle, use your LEFT hand to open the door. This will stop the door opening fully and also means you are looking behind you so you can check for approaching traffic, including cyclists.

Key Action and Messages to Drivers:

• Keep a look out for vulnerable road users, be patient, pass wide and slow and use the ‘Dutch-reach’ method!

See attached:

• “SHE Huddle FY21 019 Vulnerable Road Users message.
• “RMTV Screen Message”. When Overtaking Cyclists: 
  • Be Patient – wait until it is safe to pass
  • Pass Wide – a minimum of 1.5m
  • Pass Slow – remember cyclists have no protection

Management only enquiries to Mark Bromhall Royal Mail Group Road Safety Manager Mobile: 07872 815241 Email: mark.r.bromhall@royalmail.com

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

21LTB255 Royal Mail Group – Drive Carefully Around Vulnerable Road Users Road Safety Initiative (Cyclists, Horse Riders & Pedestrians)

SHE Huddle FY21 019 Vulnerable Road Users

TV screen template Wk13 Summer VRUs

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CWU SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION – 12 NOON – 26^TH JUNE – LONDON

The CWU and other TUC affiliated unions are supporting the People’s Assembly national demonstration against the government’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and their attempt to sneak through the draconian ‘Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill’ which will restrict the right to demonstrate in the future.

The Tories will ultimately make working people pay the price for the coronavirus crisis and our movement must respond to this. The CWU has been at the forefront in calling for a new deal for workers and our presence at this demonstration is part of supporting that objective.

In promoting this event, I understand that some may be concerned about taking part in a demonstration when all Covid-19 restrictions have not yet been relaxed. As we navigate the changing circumstances, I am sure branches will make their own judgements on this based on their own assessments. However, it is entirely legal to take part in a demonstration if you so wish to and the appropriate safety measures will be in place on the march and during the speeches.

The demonstration will assemble on Portland Place at 12 Noon and march to Parliament Square. The CWU bloc will be marked at the assembly point by our large CWU balloons that you will have seen at previous demonstrations.

A shorter, accessible march has also been prepared for disabled people or for those who cannot walk the full march from Portland Place. Those who wish to take part in the accessible march should meet opposite Downing Street at the Ministry of Defence Main Building at 12:30. Disabled members who wish to take part in the full march will be directed by stewards at Portland Place to the DPAC block 3 rows from the front of the demonstration.

We would also encourage branches to affiliate to the People’s Assembly – the form for doing so is attached to this letter.  The flyer for this demonstration is also attached to this LTB.

Yours sincerely

Dave Ward

General Secretary

21LTB254 CWU SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION 

The People’s Assembly Affiliation Form 

Please complete the following details and send to: The People’s Assembly,
52 Beachy Road, London, E3 2NS. 

Trade Union / Organisation 

__________________________________________________________________

Branch/ Region (if appropriate)

__________________________________________________________________

Contact Name­­­­­­_____________________Position Organization______________ 

Address__________________________________________________________

Postcode_________________________________________________________ 

Telephone Number_________________________________________________ 

Email(s)___________________________________________________________ 

Annual Affiliation Rates (Please circle the appropriate)
No organization should be unable to affiliate due to lack of funds. Please contact office@thepeoplesassembly.org.uk should you wish to discuss reduced rates if necessary.

• Local Organisations: £20
• Regional Organisations: £50
• National Organisations:
• Less than 50,000 members £100
• 50,000 – 100,000 members £200
• 100,000 – 200,000 members £350
• Over 200,000 members £500

……….. ………… …………

PAYMENT DETAILS: 

Standing Order: 

Please complete our Standing Order Form (below) and return to above address.

Cheque: 

Please make cheques payable to: ‘The People’s Assembly’ and return to above address.

BACS:

The People’s Assembly, Unity Trust Bank, Account No. 20309817, Sort Code. 60-83-01

Direct Debit/ Pay by Card:

Please call our Office on 020 8525 6988

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Joint Note to all Operational Managers and CWU Representatives

Following feedback from the field yesterday that related to what appeared to be a diktat to cut costs and Scheduled Attendance, I have been involved in dialogue this morning with Achim Dunnwald, the Chief Operating Officer of Royal Mail Group aimed at providing full clarity to the situation.

In order to ensure that momentum is not lost in the implementation of the current Pathway to Change realignment and revision activity and that this continues in a manner that reflects our mutual interest agenda, the attached joint clarification has been reached between us both.

Branches and Representatives will note that complete clarity is provided in relation to any additional paperwork that may be in circulation in that “Any document that has not been agreed jointly by National, Divisional or Regional management and CWU, has no status”.

The situation should now be crystal clear to all operational managers and representatives and ensure that the great progress that has been in place since the Pathway to Change Agreement ratified earlier this year now continues.

I would be grateful if this LTB and associated documentation can be given the widest possible circulation.

Any enquiries in relation to the content of this LTB should be addressed to the DGS(P) Department.

Yours sincerely,

Terry Pullinger

Deputy General Secretary (Postal)

LTB 253/21 – Joint Note to all Operational Managers and CWU Representatives

Note to all Operational Managers and CWU Reps – Signed

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ROYAL MAIL: FINANCE – PATHWAY TO CHANGE AGREEMENT

Branches are advised that a Joint Statement on the implementation of the Shorter Working Week in Finance has been agreed and is attached to this LTB for information. The Shorter Working Week will be implemented on 26^th July 2021 across Finance as a function.

Members and Representatives in Finance will be invited to engagement sessions over the coming weeks to discuss further details in relation to the changes in the reduction of the working week.

Branches and Representatives are urged to bring this LTB and associated Joint Statement to the attention of our members in Finance.

Any queries in relation to this LTB should be sent to Lea Sheridan (lsheridan@cwu.org)

Yours sincerely

Andy Furey

Assistant Secretary

LTB 252/21 – Royal Mail – Finance – Pathway To Change Agreement

Attachment 1 to 21LTB252

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An excellent session on average holiday pay. Please share with our members https://fb.watch/6bdLJFf0O1/

ELECTION OF NATIONAL DELEGATIONS – 2021

• TUC Congress
• Labour Party Conference

Further to LTB 219/21 dated 26^th May 2021 at the close of nominations the following have been received:

TUC

Postal Constituency

NEC (1 Member)No Nominations Received

Lay Members (7 Members at least 2 delegates must be women & at least 1 delegate must be BAME)Steve  CrokeSouth Midlands Postal*ElectedHugh GaffneyGlasgow & District Amal*ElectedKeith HamiltonSouth Central Postal*ElectedAmarjite SinghSouth East Wales Amal*Elected  (BAME Quota)

Telecom & Financial Services Constituency

NEC (1 Member)Ken WoolleyPortsmouth West Sussex & IOW*Elected

Lay Members (5 Members at least 1 delegate must be a woman & least 1 delegate must be BAME)Michelle BaileyMidland No 1, Capital, Portsmouth West Sussex & IOW*ElectedEmma GarnerPreston Brook & Bury, Capital, Mersey,  Midland No 1, Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs,  North Anglia, Scotland No 1,  Tyne & Wear Clerical, West Yorkshire*ElectedJacky MorreyMid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs, Capital, Mersey,  Midland No 1, North Anglia,  Scotland No 1, Tyne & Wear Clerical, West Yorkshire*ElectedTrish VollansWest Yorkshire, Capital, Mersey , Midland No 1,  Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs, North Anglia, Scotland No 1, Tyne & Wear Clerical*ElectedMel WilsonTyne & Wear Clerical,  Capital, Mersey,  Midland No 1, Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs,  North Anglia, Scotland No 1, West Yorkshire*Elected

LABOUR PARTY

Postal Constituency

NEC (1 Member)Steve JonesLondon Postal Engineering, London Regional MT*ELECTED

Lay Members (7 Members at least 2 delegates must be women & at least 1 delegate must be BAME)

Ballot RequiredPaul BraithwaiteNorth Lancs & CumbriaJohn CarsonGlasgow & District AmalHuw DaviesLondon PhoenixHugh GaffneyGlasgow & District AmalKeith HamiltonSouth Central PostalAlan TateLondon Regional MT

Telecom & Financial Services Constituency

NEC (1 Member)Simon EdwardsMid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs*ELECTED

Lay Members (5 Members at least 1 delegate must be a woman & at least 1 delegate must be BAME)Michelle BaileyMidland No 1  *ELECTED (BAME Quota)Joyce StevensonScotland No 1, Capital, Mersey, Midland No 1, Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs, North Anglia, Tyne & Wear Clerical*ELECTED (Woman Quota)

Ballot RequiredGraham ColkSouth Wales, Capital,  Mersey, Midland No 1, Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs,  North Anglia, Scotland No 1, Tyne & Wear ClericalBrian KennyMersey, Capital, Midland No 1, Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs, North Anglia, Tyne & Wear Clerical, Scotland No 1Ryan O’GormanNorth Wales & Chester Combined Steve PhillipsCentral Counties & Thames Valley, North Anglia, David RayTyne & Wear Clerical, Capital, Mersey, Midland No 1,  Mid Wales, The Marches & North Staffs, Scotland No 1

The ballot timetable is as follows:

Despatch ballot papers               23 June 2021

Ballot Closes                                  07 July 2021 (14:00)

Any enquiries regarding this Letter to Branches should be addressed to the Senior Deputy General Secretary’s Department on telephone number 020 8971 7237, or email address sdgs@cwu.org.

Yours sincerely,

Tony Kearns

Senior Deputy General Secretary

21LTB250

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