Women’s workwear is being put through its paces up and down the country, with two types of trainers and boots and a safety shoe design – all made particularly for female employees – are currently being trialled.
CWU outdoor secretary Mark Baulch said: “One of the motions at this year’s annual conference highlighted that Royal Mail footwear is unisex and instructed the executive to negotiate with Royal Mail to recognise the difference between men’s and women’s feet and work towards the introduction of gender-specific footwear.
“Following discussions with the business, several types of shoes, boots and trainers – from sizes 2 to 7 inclusive – are now being tested by female staff and we are looking forward to receiving their feedback and jointly reviewing the exercise.”
And the women’s Royal Mail workshirt, the prototype of which was featured in The Voice back in May – is also currently being trialled by some 500 workers at 26 workplaces.
“It’s extremely important that, as the gender balance among our membership changes, that we ensure that the appropriate uniform is available and this is a key aspect of our union’s ongoing commitment to practical equality in the workplace,” Mark added.
Discussions with Royal Mail are also taking pace on updating the current National Uniform Agreement, with the union’s key priority being to reduce ordering, re-ordering and replacement timescales, while also working with the business to improve the quality of footwear for all staff and the longevity of uniform in general.
