CWU – OBITUARY LIST 2020/21

As you will be aware it is normal practice to publish an Obituary List of those members who have sadly passed away since the previous conference in the General Conference Agenda Pad.

Despite having to cancel the 2020 General Conference due to the Covid19 pandemic the agenda was published and it contained the Obituary list as normal.

However, due to the pandemic continuing and our inability to hold our normal General Conference we believe it fitting and correct to publish this LTB containing the attached Obituary List.

Obviously when we are able to meet together we will be able to pay our respects in the normal and appropriate way but until that time it is only right that we put on record the list of those we have lost.

Accordingly, please find attached a list of those members that have passed away in the previous twelve months.

Any queries regarding this Letter to Branches should be addressed to Angela Niven on conferences@cwu.org

Yours sincerely,

Tony Kearns

Senior Deputy General Secretary

LTB 200/21 – CWU Obituary List 2021

Obituary List 2021

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“Time to Test” – CWU’s Dave Joyce Blogs on The Covid-19 LFD Home Testing Scheme in Royal Mail Group: (myroyalmail 12 May 2021)

Further to LTBs 183/21 and 190/21, from this week, all members employed in Royal Mail Group will be able to participate in and benefit from the workforce testing scheme that’s been agreed between the Government (DHSC), Royal Mail Group and the Unions. This provides for members being able to collect Covid-19 lateral flow test devices from their workplace, in order to perform self-tests in the privacy of their own homes twice weekly.

The simple to use, ‘Rapid Test’, gives a result in just 30 minutes. From there anyone getting a positive result, can then take immediate action to self-isolate, not go into work, not come into contact with work colleagues and therefore break the chain of transmission and ‘stop the virus spread’.

The scheme runs from 10 May through to the end of June, when we hope the country’s Covid-19 lockdown restrictions will end.

We want every single one of our members to take up this opportunity. It is a benefit that we have fought hard and long to get and we’ve made it as easy as possible for members to obtain test kits and utilise the testing and thereby safeguard their own safety and wellbeing as well as the people they work with, family, friends and contacts.

This will make a positive contribution to reducing transmission of the virus if we can maximise participation.

I am urging every one of our members to take part in the twice a week testing at home to help keep this virus under control.

A big thank you to all our CWU Reps and members.

See attached downloaded copy of the article which is also available at the following link: https://www.myroyalmail.com/news/2021/05/time-test

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

LTB 197/21 – Time to Test – CWU’s Dave Joyce Blogs on The Covid-19 LFD Home Testing Scheme in Royal Mail Group (myroyalmail 12 May 2021)

Time to Test – CWU’s Dave Joyce Blogs on Home Testing

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THE BIG TRUST SURVEY – HEADLINE RESULTS AND NEXT STEPS

Further to LTB 154/21 that was circulated on 8^th April 2021, Branches will be aware that the ‘Big Trust Survey’ closed at midnight on 9^th May 2021.

Attached are the headline results, as well as a joint statement that has been communicated by Royal Mail Group through their online ‘Workplace’ platform.

I would like to thank all Branches, CWU Representatives and Members for the work you have completed to promote this joint survey, which resulted in 60,474 surveys being completed by the frontline. That is 91% of the total 66,413 overall returns and the full set of returns equates to a 48% overall response rate.

Over the coming weeks, the data will be broken down to a unit or shift level and a joint high level analysis will take place following which, the results are going to be considered by the local CWU Representative and Manager, prior to being shared with the Members.

It is then the intention for joint action plans to be agreed upon along with timelines, in order to resolve the issues that have been highlighted. These action plans will then be jointly monitored from that point on and will act as the first step in our joint aim towards making a difference in your workplace by improving culture, trust and the working environment going forward.

Further developments will be reported in due course. 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)

21LTB191 – THE BIG TRUST SURVEY HEADLINE RESULTS AND NEXT STEPS

21LTB191 – ATTACHMENT 1

21LTB191 – ATTACHMENT 2

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UN Global Road Safety Week 17th – 23rd May 2021 – ‘Low Speed Streets Save Lives’

The 6^th annual UN Global Road Safety Week will run from 17 to 23 May with this year’s theme of ‘Low Speed Streets Save Lives’.

The UN campaign is sending out the message that low speed streets save lives and should be at the heart of any community. 30kmh/20mph speed limits where people and traffic mix, makes for streets that are healthy, green and liveable, in other words, streets for life.

The UN Road Safety Collaboration is calling on national and local government policymakers to act for low speed streets worldwide, limiting speeds to 30kmh/20mph where people walk, live and play and they want these lower limits to be the norm for cities, towns and villages worldwide.

The UN say these lower speed limits bring a number of benefits:

• The reduction in risk of death in road traffic accidents,
• Safer environments,
• Opportunity for use of alternative, safer, sustainable and inclusive transport,
• Lower emissions and protection for the environment – lower impact on the climate.

The UN will be lobbying governments during the campaign week to make 20mph/30kmh the urban area default speed limit.

This is already the default speed limit in a number of countries such as Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands. In the UK both Wales and Scotland have already committed to doing the same.  Wherever you are in the UK we will be seeing more and more 20mph speed limits and therefore members who drive as part of their job and in their own cars will need to be aware of these impending lower speed limits.

The view of road safety experts, road safety charities and organisations conclude that 20mph speed limits are essential for ensuring improvements in the safety of pedestrians in urban and residential areas, (including postal workers).

Many drivers see this reduced 20mph speed limit as too slow and don’t understand why it’s now seen as so important.  Here are some facts:

• Including reaction time, when driving at 20mph you can stop within 3 metres if a pedestrian steps out – a frightening event but no injuries and no damage done.
• At just 5mph over the limit – that is 25mph, you would still be travelling at 18mph after 3 metres, the force of the impact would be the equivalent of falling from the roof of a house.  A pedestrian will incur serious injury and a young child would likely be killed.
• Increase speed to 30mph and you will barely have hit the brakes before you hit the pedestrian, and will still be travelling at 27mph, the equivalent of falling from the 3rd floor of a tower block.  Injuries will be severe with a high probability of death.

17^th – 23^rd May is the UN Global Road Safety Week – highlighting the importance of respecting 20mph speed limits where imposed. All drivers are asked to please be aware and vigilant – look out for 20mph zones and always drive within the limit, even if others don’t. The law and the effects are clear – it’s not acceptable to break the speed limit.

This campaign is supported by the ‘UN Road Safety Collaboration’, ‘RoadSafe’, AIRSO, RoSPA, ‘Brake’, ‘Roadpeace’, ‘London Road Safety Forum’, ‘DfT’, ‘AA’, ‘RAC’, ‘Road Safety Foundation’, ‘Road Safety Trust’, ‘Road Safety GB’, ‘Think!’ ‘Shell’ and ‘Royal Mail Group’ (see attached WTTL Brief).

For further information:- https://www.unroadsafetyweek.org/en/home

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

21LTB196 UN Global Road Safety Week 17th – 23rd May 2021 – ‘Low Speed Streets Save Lives’

20mph Speed Limits – Huddle Template

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Royal Mail Group (SHE) Safety Flash (FY21 009) – Use of Knives – Serious Cut Hand Injury:

Introduction

Following a serious accident, caused by a knife and resulting in a severe cut injury to a worker’s hand (see attached photograph) whilst working in a Royal Mail Parcel Sort Centre, the attached urgent RMG SHE Flash FY21 009 ‘Use of Knives’ has been issued in order to raise the profile of the inappropriate use of knives in the workplace which was in breach of the ‘mandatory’ Safe System of Work and involved the use of the incorrect type of knife. The Safety Flash links to a reviewed and updated ‘Safe Working Instruction’ (copy attached) which clearly details the requirements for using knives in the operation. There are only two types of knives which are officially approved by Royal Mail Group (RM & PFWW) and which should be issued to employees (other than for specialist tasks). Any other knives in use must be removed and disposed of.  Office/Unit Managers and PiCs have been requested to communicate the details of the Safety Flash and Safe Working Instruction to their workforce and display the Safety Flash on the SHE Notice Board.

Audience:

All Royal Mail Group workers who use knives during the course of their work (e.g. RM Processing, RM Distribution, RM Parcelforce Worldwide).

Overview and Background:

Royal Mail Group Safety Health and Environment Group have issued ‘Safety Flash’, number FY21 009, (copy attached), which gives a summary of the recent serious cut hand injury accident. On investigation it was found that unapproved, not officially supplied knives

were in use at the site concerned and the Safe System of Work was not being followed. The ‘Safety Flash’ is to form the basis of a Unit Briefing to provide safety information and instruction to all staff working in operations where knives are used in order to raise awareness of the potential risk of similar incidents which could cause a serious cut injury accident.

Issue: 

The use of knives is required for some operational tasks – e.g., for cutting shrink wrap, bag ties and cardboard. Royal Mail Group Assets provides approved safety knives for specific tasks. These knives have been risk assessed and meet safety standards. They are available as RMG catalogue stores items. Other knives must not be procured or used. In this case an unapproved knife which was not fit for purpose had been provided and was being used.

The ‘mandatory’ Safe Working Instruction was not being followed by the accident victim concerned.

Description of the Incident:

The incident occurred when a worker was cutting cardboard incorrectly with an unapproved knife and slashed his hand causing a serious, deep laceration which required hospital treatment, several stiches and medication.

Impact and Effect:

The misuse of knives can cause a significant injury, if the knives are not fit for purpose and are used incorrectly.

Key Learning Points. 

• Knives must only be used for authorised operational
• Only RMG approved safety knives must be used and these are available from the RMG stores catalogue.
• Always follow the Safe Working Instruction.
• There is a serious risk of injury if this is not adhered to.

Key Management Activity and Messages to Staff:

• Communicate and display the SHE Safety Flash on the SHE Notice board.
• Brief staff on the ‘Operation and Use of Knives Safe Working Instruction (SWI)’ to all relevant staff and complete training based on the content.
• Review all knives that are used on site and remove all of those that are not compliant with the Safe Working Instruction (SWI).
• Only where the specific task requires it should compliant, authorised, knives be provided and used. These must be ordered from the RMG catalogue where required. These will either be a ‘Fish Knife’ or the ‘Auto-Retractable Knife’. No other types of knife are permitted unless specifically approved via a separate risk assessment.
• Only use a knife for its designated purpose – as identified in the approved knives and usage section of the SWI.
• Only trained individuals must use a knife for an operational task. This can be completed by a manager or a Workplace Coach.
• The relevant SSOW for the task must be followed.
• Use appropriate PPE.
• Monitor the use of knives to ensure compliance to the SWI.

Attachments:

• Copy of RMG SHE Safety Flash FY21 009 – ‘Use of Knives’.
• Copy of RMG Safe Working Instruction – ‘Operation and Use of Knives’ (Fish Knife and Auto-Retractable Knife).
• Photograph of the Knife Accident Victim’s Injury.

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

21LTB194 Royal Mail Group (SHE) Safety Flash (FY21 009) – Use of Knives – Serious Cut Hand Injury

SHE Flash FY21 009 Use of knives

Operation and Use of Knives SWI v1.0

Serious Knife Injury Accident Image (Atherstone IPSC 15.03.21)

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Royal Mail Property and Facilities Solutions Limited (RMPFSL)

Engineering and Admin & Generic Grades Pay 2021

I am pleased to announce we have reached a negotiators agreement on a pay settlement for RMPFSL Engineering and Admin & Generic Grades.

The agreement is a 1 year, 2.6% pay increase flowing through to all allowances backdated to April 1^st 2021.

As well as the pay agreement, we have also agreed with RMPFSL to embark on a proper apprentice scheme, which will see cohorts of apprentices come in year on year.

There is also confusion around some workload and grading of our Admin & Generic Members who are currently graded Broadband 6 and whether they are CWU or Unite/CMA grades.  We will be undertaking a review of all admin workload and grading and ensure the correct workload is attributed to CWU represented grades and the work moving through to the appropriate grade and being represented by the CWU where appropriate.

We could have insisted on reaching agreement on the above objectives prior to putting the pay agreement to ballot. However, we do not want to unnecessarily delay our members getting the benefit from the pay increase. A Joint Statement confirming the pay increase and the commitments above is attached at Appendix A.

We are now making the necessary arrangements to put the agreement out to a ballot of our RMPFSL Engineering and Admin & Generic Members.

Further communication with the ballot timetable will be published in due course.

All enquiries regarding the content of this LTB should be addressed to the PTCS Department, quoting reference 320. Email address: khay@cwu.org

Yours sincerely,

Carl Maden

Assistant Secretary (Acting)

PTCS Department

Attachment 1: 21LTB193 – Royal Mail Property and Facilities Solutions Limited (RMPFSL) Engineering and Admin & Generic Grades Pay 2021

Attachment 2: RMPFSL Pay – Appendix A.signed

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Pathway to Change Agreement – Improving Efficiency / Productivity – Productivity Joint Working Group (PJWG) Recommendations

Colleagues will recall that the terms of the Pathway to Change Agreement (Section 2.6) committed RMG and CWU to work together to implement new, efficient and productive ways of working and to raise overall standards across the operation.

The concept of the Joint Working Group (JWG) was agreed under the terms of the 2018 Four Pillars Agreement and was progressed whilst the negotiations on the Pathway to Change Agreement were taking place. The first report/recommendations from the JWG formed part of Section 2.6 of the final Pathway to Change Agreement along with the commitment for their work to continue.

We have not had agreed productivity measures for many years and the work of the JWG has not only been excellent thus far but is also crucial to ensuring fair and manageable workloads for all – a fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay.

Against that backdrop, the JWG were authorised in Section 2.6 of the Pathway to Change Agreement to continue its crucial work and make further recommendations.

Attached for your information is a Joint Statement, which confirms the further recommendations from the JWG which have been agreed by the RMG and CWU Main Negotiating Group, after ratification by the Postal Executive, and has been fully briefed to the CWU Senior Field Officials.

We felt it was essential that local representatives and managers entering into revision activity in all offices and functions were fully aware of the recommendations and that there is no room for misunderstanding or misinterpretation of what has been agreed, hence this Joint Statement.

I would like to place on record our thanks to the Productivity Joint Working Group (PJWG), who have already completed a huge amount of work in a short period of time, and continue to develop and refine our joint approach on this issue to ensure that the spirit and intent of the Pathway to Change Agreement is delivered and honoured.

Further information on this activity and outputs of the PJWG will be circulated to the field in due course. In the meantime, any enquires on the content of this LTB and the attached Joint Statement should be referred to either the DGS(P) or the appropriate operational department.

Yours sincerely,

Terry Pullinger
Deputy General Secretary (Postal)

21LTB192 – Pathway to Change Agreement – Improving Efficiency…

21LTB192 – Attachment 1

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FORMAL NOTICE

Please note this LTB contains IMPORTANT information 

for immediate distribution and display throughout your branch

Dear Colleagues,

ELECTION OF:

·         CWU National Executive Council

·         CWU Industrial Executives

·         CWU Assistant Secretary TFS 1

·         CWU Assistant Secretary TFS 2

·         CWU Assistant Secretary TFS 3

·         CWU Assistant Secretary Postal (Technical Services/HR Procedures)

Further to LTB 034/21 dated 1^st February 2021, which contained formal notification of the timetable for the above elections.

The NEC has now approved the regulations for the above elections which are attached to this LTB for your information.  In addition to the regulations, due to the revised size composition of the NEC, a supplementary document containing the election arrangements and guidance has also been produced to assist branches and candidates in the forthcoming elections.

Branches should be aware that the regulations for the above elections contain a number of changes including revised arrangements for the dispatch and return of nomination forms.

Branches are therefore advised to review the regulations in order to make themselves familiar with these changes.

Please note that in respect of the CWU Assistant Secretaries; Legal Services and Health Safety and Environment, the NEC has taken the decision that it is necessary to continue to defer the elections for these positions pending the outcome of the Redesign Project review of CWU HQ structures.

For ease of reference the details of the National Representative positions to be elected in 2021 are set out below.

CWU NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL & INDUSTRIAL EXECUTIVES 

1)     NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

The NEC shall comprise 34 members:

1. President and Vice President, but their inclusion shall not increase the numbers from their originating Constituencies.
2. 11 lay members elected biennially by and from the Postal Constituency and 1 of whom shall be the Vice Chair. All of whom shall automatically be members of the Postal Industrial Executive. At least 2 lay members must be women. At least 1 lay member must be BAME.
3. 2 lay members elected biennially by and from the Postal Constituency. At least 1 lay member must be a woman. Lay members holding these 2 positions will not be eligible to hold a position on the Postal Industrial Executive.
4. 8 lay members elected biennially by and from the Telecom and Financial Services Constituency and 1 of whom shall be the Vice Chair. All of whom shall automatically be members of the Telecoms and Financial Services Industrial Executive. At least 2 lay members must be women. At least 1 lay member must be BAME
5. 2 lay members elected biennially by and from the Telecom and Financial Services Constituency. At least 1 lay member must be a woman. Lay members holding these 2 positions will not be eligible to hold a position on the Telecoms and Financial Services Industrial Executive.
6. 2 lay Young Workers members elected biennially who must be 29 or under at the time of the election. 1 of whom will be elected by and from the Postal Constituency and 1 of whom shall be elected by and from the Telecoms and Financial Services Constituency.
7. 1 lay Retired Member elected biennially by all members of the retired sector. The Retired Members NEC representative shall not be entitled to vote on issues that are Financial, Rule, Constitutional or issues that could be considered to have an industrial context except where they apply only to Retired Members.
8. 8 lay Equality members elected biennially, 1 lay member from each of the Postal and TFS constituencies for each of the following equality strands.

          Women

          LGBT+

          BAME

          Disability

Please note that the NEC members listed in categories c), e), f), g) and h) are members of the NEC only and are not automatically members of their respective Industrial Executives. 

2)     CWU INDUSTRIAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEES

Postal Executive (PE)

The Postal Executive (PE) will consist of 17 lay members elected biennially.

The composition of the PE is as follows:

1. 11 NEC members elected by and taken from all Members in the Postal Constituency whom in accordance with the rules of the CWU shall automatically be members of the respective Industrial Executive.
2. Subject to implementing the outcome of (a) above up to 2 members elected by and taken from members who are from Postal Technical Services Grades.
3. Subject to implementing the outcome of (a) and (b) above the remaining places on the PE will be elected by and taken from members who are from Postal Grades.

Further information regarding the voting entitlement for the PE elections will be published to branches prior to the dispatch of ballot papers.  

3)     TELECOMS & FINANCIAL SERVICES CONSTITUENCY INDUSTRIAL EXECUTIVE POSITIONS 

The Telecoms & Financial Services Executive (T&FSE) will consist of 16 lay members elected biennially.

The composition of the T&FS Executive is as follows:

1. 8 NEC members elected by and from all members in the Telecoms and Financial Services Constituency whom in accordance with the rules of the CWU shall automatically be members of the respective Industrial Executive.
2. 1 member elected by and from all members the Telecom & Financial Services Constituency and who must be aged 29 or under at the time of the election.
3. 1 member elected by and taken from members in the Santander Group and related companies (Santander UK, Santander UK Operations Ltd, Santander UK Technology Ltd, Santander Global and Paragon Customer Communications).
4. 1 member elected by and taken from members in Telefonica O2 UK and Connect 44.
5. 1 member elected by and from all members working for Capita in the T&FS Sector and 14Forty (Capita contract).
6. 4 members elected by and taken from all other members in the Telecom & Financial Services Constituency.

Further information regarding the voting entitlement for the T&FSE elections will be published to branches prior to the dispatch of ballot papers.  

CWU ASSISTANT SECRETARY TELECOMS & FINANCIAL SERVICES – TFS 1 

The above TFS Assistant Secretary is currently responsible for dealing with the following companies:

Openreach, Openreach Northern Ireland, Digital Realty, Fujitsu, Manx Telecom.

CWU ASSISTANT SECRETARY TELECOMS & FINANCIAL SERVICES – TFS 2

The above TFS Assistant Secretary is currently responsible for dealing with the following companies:

Consumer (including EE), BT Group Finance & Billing, Yell.

CWU ASSISTANT SECRETARY TELECOMS & FINANCIAL SERVICES – TFS 3

The above TFS Assistant Secretary is currently responsible for dealing with the following companies:

BT Supply Chains, BT Property & Facilities, Capita (O2 Contract), Capita (Tesco Mobile Contract), CBRE (BT Contract), ISS (BT Contract), Swiss Post Solutions (CBRE/BT Contract), 14forty (Capita Contract), Elior (BT Contract).

CWU ASSISTANT SECRETARY POSTAL (TECHNICAL SERVICES/HR PROCEDURES)

The above Postal Assistant Secretary is currently responsible for dealing with the following companies:

Technical Service Grades, HR Procedures, Royal Mail Property and Facilities Solutions Engineers, CBRE, Royal Mail Fleet, Processing Engineers.

The responsibilities of all CWU Assistant Secretaries shall be to carry out and discharge under the direction of the GS such Union duties as they may be deemed required to perform.

The timetable for all of the above elections, as previously notified in LTB 034/21 is as follows:

Election Timetable:

Nominations Open:  20 May 2021

Nominations Close:  10 June 2021 (14:00)

Accept Nomination:  14 June 2021 (14:00)

(TFSE NEC/IE positions only)

Despatch ballot material:  6 July 2021  

Close of ballot:  3 August 2021 (first post)

Result:  5 August 2021

*Please note that ballot papers will be sent to all eligible members who are included in the membership register maintained by the union as at 6 June 2021.  Therefore any changes of address, etc. will need to have been received at CWU HQ prior to this date.

Branches will also wish to note that the independent scrutineer appointed by the union to oversee the election arrangements is Civica Election Services.

The Election Regulations stipulate that a copy of the regulations for these elections must be distributed to all branches in advance of the nomination process.  A copy of the Election Regulations is therefore attached and I would be grateful if you could ensure that these are brought to the attention of the members of your branch.

The regulations will also be published on the CWU website and a copy will be issued to all candidates nominated to stand in the Election(s). 

Further information regarding the nomination arrangements will be sent to branches in due course. However Branches are reminded that in order for nominations for the above positions to be valid then they will need to be submitted on the appropriate CWU HQ issued nomination forms.

Elections Prize Draws 

Branches are reminded that in order to protect the integrity of these very important national elections and more importantly, ensure that the union is legally compliant with the relevant legislation covering such elections, that election prize draws should not be conducted under any circumstances unless written authorisation has been given by the Senior Deputy General Secretary.

Any enquiries regarding this LTB should be addressed to Senior Deputy General Secretary Department, CWU HQ, for the attention of Peter Metcalfe on 0208 971 7368, or email: pmetcalfe@cwu.org

Yours sincerely,

Tony Kearns
Senior Deputy General Secretary

21LTB195

Election Arrangements & Guidelines 2021 – NEC & IE Elections

NEC & IE Election Regulations 2021

National Officer Election Regulations 2021

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Mental Health Awareness Week 10-16 May 2021

‘Mental Health Foundation’ and ‘Healthwatch’

Hosted by the ‘Mental Health Foundation’, this week 10-16 May 2021, starting today, is Mental Health Awareness Week.  The coronavirus pandemic has impacted people in many different ways and this week gives us all the opportunity to think about our own, and other people’s mental wellbeing.

‘Healthwatch’ state that one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year and Mental Health Awareness Week aims to get people talking about their mental health and reduce the stigma that can stop people from asking for help.

The theme this year is ‘Nature’ and a Mental Health Foundation research report entitled “mental health impacts of the Pandemic” showed that going for walks outside was one of our top coping strategies and 45% of those surveyed reported being in green spaces had been vital for their mental health wellbeing.

As well as continuing to raise awareness of mental health in general, the aim for this week and beyond is to inspire more people to connect with nature and the outside environment in new ways, noticing the impact that this connection can have for their mental health.

Getting out into the countryside, open spaces, parks, reserves, connecting with pastimes, hobbies, interest groups, clubs, associations, charities, good causes etc can have the unique ability to increase creativity, reduce feelings of social isolation and be effective in protecting our mental health, and preventing distress.

The Mental Health Foundation would like people to think about how nature can support their mental health, for example: Is there green space near to you that you could access more often or is there a friend or family member that you have not seen for a long time and could arrange to meet up with them in a local park, rural area or beauty spot?

Mental Health UK’s – 5 Ways To Wellbeing

The ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’ are a set of pillars which are key to improving our mental health. They are geared around themes of social connectedness, physical activity, awareness, learning, and giving.  Across the week, those interested can join in by building in some small yet effective activities into daily lives to feel more positive and able to get the most out of life! The 5 Ways are:

1. Connect

Connection is about relating to one an other and feeling understood. Speak to the people in your life, be it friends, family, colleagues or neighbours. Build new connections to expand your circles – this could be at work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Developing these connections will support and enrich you every day.

2. Take notice

Take stock of your surroundings, be curious, catch sight of the beautiful. Being in a state of ‘mindfulness’ has been shown to be associated with a positive mental state. Greater awareness of the world around us helps us see the unusual and notice simple pleasures like the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you’re walking to work, eating lunch or talking to friends. Be present to your feelings and environment. Reflecting on your experiences will help you appreciate what matters to you.

3. Give

Giving encapsulates many things – from showing goodwill and generosity of spirit to giving presents and giving up our time. Evidence suggests that ‘giving back’ or helping others promotes wellbeing for all ages. Why not do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone. You could even volunteer your time with a charity or join an online community to give and receive peer support in equal measure. The key to giving is to look outwards, as well as inwards. Seeing yourself, and your happiness, linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and creates connections with the people around you.

4. Be Active

Engaging in regular physical activity is known to go hand in hand with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups. Not everyone needs to be a fitness fanatic to boost your wellness through activity. Simply step outside, exercise your green fingers or organise a games night. You could go for a walk or run, cycle or dance. Exercise releases hormones that make you feel good. Most importantly, being active is about discovering a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness.

5. Keep learning

Learning something new is good for your brain and often exciting for the learner. Trying something different, rediscovering an old interest or signing up for that course you’ve always wanted to do can also improve our confidence and widen our skillset. Take on a new responsibility at work, do some arts and crafts or pick up an untried recipe. The challenge and enjoyment of learning new things gives a sense of fulfilment that is second to none.

There is further information on “5-Ways-To-Wellbeing” plus lots of good Help and a variety of helpful information, support and advice to help you manage your mental health and wellbeing or support someone you know at the Mental Health UK Website:- https://mentalhealth-uk.org

“5-Ways-To-Wellbeing” Poster

See attached this useful information and guidance Poster/Leaflet on 5 ways to wellbeing that can be downloaded and printed off for distribution to workplaces.

(Mental Health UK is formed by a coalition of 4 UK Mental Health Charities; ‘Re-Think Mental Health’ England, ‘HAFAL’ Wales, ‘Support In Mind’ Scotland and ‘Mindwise’ Northern Ireland)

NHS Mental Wellbeing Audio Guides

The NHS has introduced a series of mental wellbeing audio guides people can listen to, to help boost your mood and tackle Mental Health issues.  You can listen to them privately, in your own time, to help you through feelings such as anxiety or a low mood. The Audio guides available are:

• Audio Guide: Low mood and depression. In this audio guide, a doctor explains what you can do to help yourself cope with low mood and depression.
• Audio Guide: Anxiety control training. In this audio guide, a doctor explains how you can take control of anxiety.
• Audio Guide: Sleep problems. In this audio guide, a doctor explains what you can do to give yourself the best chance of a good night’s sleep.
• Audio Guide: Low confidence and assertiveness. In this audio guide, a doctor gives you tips to help build your confidence.
• Audio Guide: Unhelpful thinking. In this audio guide, a doctor helps you to replace negative thoughts with more positive thinking.

The Audio Guides are at:- https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/mental-wellbeing-audio-guides/

The NHS Mental Health website has other useful guides, tools and activities such as:

• 10 Stress Busters
• Exercise for Depression
• 5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing

Depression and Anxiety Mood self-assessment quiz:

When it comes to emotions, it can sometimes be hard to recognise or admit we’re not 100%. If you’re not sure how you’re feeling, you can try the NHS mood self-assessment. If you’re 16 or over, this depression and anxiety self-assessment quiz can help you better understand how you’ve been feeling recently. With each question, think about how you’ve been feeling over the last 2 weeks. The quiz is at:- https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/depression-anxiety-self-assessment-quiz/

MHFA Address Your Stress Toolkit

In 2018 Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England launched their “Address Your Stress Toolkit” to support that year’s campaign and the Toolkit remains a useful resource. This included a set of practical resources designed to help people better understand and manage stress. The toolkit is still available to those wishing to use it on the above link. “Address Your Stress Toolkit” is available at:- https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/resources/address-your-stress/

MHFA “supporting your mental health whilst working at home” Video

Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA) have produced a short video ‘supporting your mental health whilst working at home’ which is available on the following link: https://mhfaengland.org/remote-working-resources/everyone/

MHFA 10 Keys To Happier Living

See attached this useful information and guidance packed Poster/Leaflet that can be downloaded and printed off for distribution to workplaces.

PHE ‘Every Mind Matters Campaign’

This campaign was launched to support the nation’s mental health, as half of adults say they are more worried during this current lockdown than at the start of the pandemic and lockdown in March 2020.

A new survey, commissioned by Public Health England (PHE) at the start of the current government restrictions, reveals the impact coronavirus (COVID-19) has had on adults’ mental wellbeing across the country.

The research found that almost half (49%) felt that the pandemic has impacted negatively on their mental health and wellbeing (53% of women and 45% of men). Of those surveyed, significant proportions of the population said they had been experiencing more anxiety (46%), stress (44%), sleep problems (34%) and low mood (46%) over the course of the pandemic. The following were the most common reasons people thought the lockdown had negatively impacted their mental health:

• 56% missing friends and family; and loneliness 33%.
• 53% uncertainty about the future; with financial and employment worries 27%.
• 53% worried about family’s safety and health.

However, at the same time 3 in 5 (60%) of those asked say they feel hopeful about the future. Many adults (75%) reported that they are planning to take or have taken steps to look after their mental wellbeing, with exercising regularly (32%) eating well (29%) and talking more to family and friends (28%) being the main actions.

To support people during this time, PHE launched a nationwide “Better Health – Every Mind Matters” campaign to support people to take action to look after their mental health and wellbeing and help support others such as family and friends. The campaign encourages people to get a free NHS-approved Mind Plan from the “Every Mind Matters Website”. By answering 5 simple questions, adults will get a personalised action plan with practical tips to help them deal with stress and anxiety, boost their mood, sleep better and feel more in control. Over 2.6 million Mind Plans have been created since it launched.

The “Every Mind Matters Covid-19 Hub” also includes practical tips and support on how adults can deal with uncertainty, how to cope with money and job worries and how to look after both their own and their family’s mental wellbeing while staying at home.

The campaign is supported by a coalition of leading mental health charities, including ‘Mind’, ‘Samaritans’, ‘Young Minds’ and ‘Rethink Mental Health’.

• The Every Mind Matters Website is at:- https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/
• To get an Every Mind Matters Mind Plan By Answering 5 Questions in an ‘Interactive Quiz’ go to:

https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/your-mind-plan-quiz/

Royal Mail Group

Royal Mail Group the largest employer of CWU Grades is initiating a comprehensive awareness and information campaign during Mental Health Awareness Week covering the Occupational Health support package for the workforce and signposting workers to a number of support organisations and charities. The RMG First Class Support service is completely confidential and independent. RMG workforce members can Visit: ‘www.rmgfirstclasssupport.co.uk’ or download the ‘Lifeworks’ app to access health assessments, tailored support programmes and content. RMG employees can call 0345 266 5060 or use the online chat facility via the website or app if they would like to talk to someone about any physical or mental health-related matter, for lifestyle advice, or for direct access to ‘free’ counselling treatments. New users of the website or app can sign up using a unique invitation code, which is ‘RMG-‘ and their payroll number, for example RMG-12345678. The “Feeling First Class – Mental Health” support and advice is on the Health and Wellbeing Intranet pages, and the page includes stress guidance, support and training as well as signposting to internal and external mental health support services. The RMG – Rowland Hill Fund: Tel: 0345 600 4586Website: www.rowlandhillfund.org offers financial aid to colleagues, pensioners and their families in times of need.  See attached RMG Mental Health Awareness Week information. Neyber: Through Royal Mail Group’s ‘My Bundle’ is a financial wellbeing option where RMG employees can access debt consolidation loans and financial education. Visit: ‘mybundle.royalmail.com’.

Shout 85258

Shout 85258 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. The charity Shout 85258 launched publicly in May 2019 and since then they’ve had more than 500,000 conversations with people who are anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. As a digital service, Shout 85258 has become increasingly critical since Covid-19, being one of the few mental health support services able to operate as normal at this time. Shout has 2,300 empathetic, trained volunteers who take conversations with texters, listening and supporting them to get to a calmer place. Shout Clinical Supervisors oversee and monitor the real-time support and conversations 24/7. Clinical supervisors can escalate texters to the emergency services via a direct line if they are deemed at imminent risk. The most common issues which emerge during a conversation are: suicide (34%), depression (34%), anxiety (32%), relationship (27%), loneliness (18%) and self-harm (15%).

Samaritans

If you’re struggling or in distress – It’s best to speak to someone now. The Samaritans Helpline runs 24/7 and you can call 116 123 if you want to talk to someone now.

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Website: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

Get involved

The Mental Health Foundation and MHFA want Mental Health First Aiders, Trade Union Reps, Mental Health Ambassadors and Champions to support the Mental Health Awareness Week campaigns and to make the most of the information and toolkits provided during Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond. The CWU Health Safety and Environment Department is joining with MHFA England, Mental Health Foundation, Mind, Young Minds, Re-Think Mental Health, Time To Change, Shout and the Samaritans in supporting Mental Health Awareness Week.  We are therefore encouraging Reps to get involved with the campaigns within the Union, as well as with friends, family and colleagues, bearing fully in mind the obvious limitations this year due to the Coronavirus/Covid-19 Pandemic Lockdown situation. This effort and initiative doesn’t end after this week and we would encourage Branches, Reps and Regions to organise campaigns on an ongoing basis using the resources available.

CWU Mental Health Strategy 

Steve Jones NEC member and Chair of the CWU national ‘Mental Health Strategy Project Team’ issued the following message today at the start of Mental Health Awareness Week:

“A major component of the CWU Mental Health Strategy is to build support for the 700 or so Reps that have had Awareness or Mental Health First Aid training. Last year each region nominated a ‘lead’ to help deliver this as well as assist in building a mental health strategy within their respective regions. We have set up a national network for the ‘leads’ and we are currently increasing this support from 1 to 2 per Region. So far a number of ‘Stress Workshops’ and discussions with Regions and their Executives have been held. Each of these initiatives have been received with huge support and enthusiasm. It is evident that mental health is a massive issue which touches the lives of all of us in one way or another, the pandemic has brought this into sharp focus. I would like to give a massive thanks to all of our Reps for the magnificent job that they are doing in supporting fellow members in increasingly difficult times. The most important message I can give is don’t suffer in silence.” 

Useful Contacts:

• Mental Health Foundation:https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk
• Shout Mental Health Text Service is a free, nationwide, 24/7, text based service. Text “Shout” to 85258.
• Mind: Information and Guidance around managing your mental health and wellbeing at this time.  Call 116 123 Email: jo@samaritans.org Website: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
• Rethink Mental Illness: Resources for looking after your wellbeing and managing your money during the Covid-19 outbreak. Call: 0808 801 0525 or visit https://www.rethink.org
• Stepchange: Offering expert, tailored advice and practical solutions to problem debt, to contact the UK’s leading debt charity Call 0800 138 1111 or visit stepchange.org.
• National Domestic Abuse helpline: is available, including for concerned friends. Call 0808 2000 247 24hours a day or visit nationaldahelpline.org.uk.
• Cruse Bereavement Care: Phone: 0808 808 1677(Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or visit https://www.cruse.org.uk/
• Support in Mind Scotland: Phone: 0131 662 4359(Monday to Friday 9am and 5pm). Email: info@supportinmindscotland.org.uk Website: https://www.supportinmindscotland.org.uk
• MindWise Northern Ireland: Phone: 0808 802 0020Email: covid19@adviceni.net Text: ACTION to 81025Website: https://www.mindwisenv.org
• Hafal Wales Tel: 01792 816600 Email: hafal@hafal.orgWebsite: https://www.hafal.org

Together, we can realise our shared vision of where anyone affected by mental illness can get the appropriate support and care to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Help us spread the word through awareness raising and continue to amplify the message of “You Are Not Alone.”

Attachments:

• Mental Health UK – ‘5 Ways To Wellbeing Poster/Leaflet’
• Mental Health First Aid (Eng) – 10 Keys To Happier Living’ Poster/Leaflet
• Mental Health Foundation – Mental Health Awareness Week Poster
• RMG – Mental Health Awareness Week – Briefings & Poster

Yours sincerely

Dave Joyce
National Health, Safety & Environment Officer

21LTB189 Mental Health Awareness Week 10-16 May 2021

Mental Health Awareness Week Nature Podster

MHAW 2021 5-Ways-To-Wellbeing-Poster-Leaflet

MHAW 2021 Plasma Slide v1

MHAW 2021 Poster v1

MHAW21 1 of 3 Welcome FINAL

MHAW21 2 of 3 Financial Wellbeing FINAL

MHAW21 3 of 3 Managing Relationships FINAL

MHFA – 10 Keys to Happier Living – Poster

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TRUST SURVEY

Members and Representatives have been contacting the departments to ask whether Royal Mail Property and Facilities Solutions Limited (PFSL) are part of the Royal Mail Trust Survey.

RMPFSL Cleaners, Engineering, Admin and Generic Grades are an important part of Royal Mail Group and therefore we are encouraging all members to participate in the Trust Survey and give their views.

The closing date for the Trust Survey is Sunday 9th May 2021 and therefore any PFSL member who wishes to participate in the trust survey will get time to complete the survey, please speak with your line manager to arrange this.

We encourage all PFSL representatives to give as much publicity as possible to this LTB to ensure RMPFSL members have their say in the survey and we can engage the company on the results.

All enquiries regarding the content of this LTB should be addressed to the PTCS Department, quoting reference 220. Email address: khay@cwu.org or Outdoor Department, reference120, email address: njones@gmail.com

Yours sincerely,
                                                                    
Carl Maden                                                                      
Assistant Secretary (Acting)                                    
PTCS Department    

Mark Baulch
Assistant Secretary
Outdoor Department

LTB 180/21

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