Uniform Allowance

[tori]

As I am due to start work next week as a Postie I am getting quite concerned that the uniform allowance for "new entrants" does not include a waterproof coat/jacket. The only outer layer I will be able to order is a fleece. I guess I will not be allowed to wear my own waterproof as it (obviously) does not have RM branding.

This may not be so much a concern in the summer months, but at this time of year I doubt I will get through 6 weeks without seeing rain or snow.

Do you think there will be spares in the delivery office until the first 6 weeks are up then I am allowed to order full uniform? I think this is wishful thinking on my part, but I am very worried about getting ill by not having sufficient weather-proof clothing provided for me for my job in the outdoors in DECEMBER!

Does anyone have any advice? I am already planning to wear plenty of layers. Also footwear - do you have to wear the footwear provided or can you choose to wear your own and are there any specifications?

[chrisj]

You can wear your own coat over your uniform and there should be some (perhaps tatty) spares in the office - depends on how clean and efficient your cleaner and managers are.

You certainly need some waterproof coat preferably thick and warming materials.

My postie is still in shorts but had his Overcoat on. I actually think I would have preferred the coat to be as long (but lighter) as the old ones.

[cweg]

Speak to your manager about getting the waterproof coat and the cagoule, he might be able to sort you out. I was fine to wear my own gear until I got my uniform. I'm sure it took less than 2 weeks for the coat to arrive.

I think you're supposed to get a note from your doctor if you want to wear your own footwear (I'm sure RM give you £30 towards your own shoes too), but a few people get away with it in my office. Probably wouldn't do you any favours if you got into an accident on duty though.

I think the RM shoes are OK personally. The CAT trainers do the trick if the weather is dry (the grip is hopeless on wet surfaces) and the CAT boots are fine for everything else.

[Keetz]

You can wear your own coat as you will probably get a high vis to put over it. Should get you by until the uniform eventually gets sorted.

[tori]

Thanks for the replies everyone

That information about the shoes is good, as I didn't realise I may be able to get the boots and trainers.

I guess I will find out what I need to know on Tuesday, I just want to be as prepared as possible! Have worked in the outdoors activity industry for many years with a uniform requirement - new items or clothes that fit were a rarity so I am hoping that this job will provide better!

[cweg]

The uniform sizing is all over the place (for male stuff anyway). The blue shirts and waterproof coat are big but the polo shirts and fleeces are quite small.