Newbie - few questions

MrsL2016 · Post by **MrsL2016** » 20 Sep 2016, 10:07

Hi

I was wondering, if anybody can answer a few questions:
1. If I sign the contract for 20/25 hrs/week, can I be asked to do the overtime and what are the consequences, if can't do it? Is it possible to do only the contracted hours?
2. When do you go to the toilet on the route?
3. Is it possible for the newbie to do all the work required in the contracted hrs?

Thank you all.

PBgirl · Post by **PBgirl** » 20 Sep 2016, 18:24

If your time is up take loops back, got a contract for a reason.
Toilet stops, well anywhere you can go... I've gone to doctors surgery, pubs, youth centre , shop (all along my route) ask nicely they usually let you...
You will struggle at first as you'll be getting yo know the route, remembering to scan, fill in 739 cards if no one in....very unlikely unless it's an easy route, small frame... plus trying to increase fitness at the same time

Don't forget water and snack...

knsue1 · Post by **knsue1** » 20 Sep 2016, 23:51

The interview says overtime isn't compulsory ,they are keen for workers to do it though , when your late back from your round that's overtime

x11n · Post by **x11n** » 21 Sep 2016, 00:42

knsue1 wrote:The interview says overtime isn't compulsory ,they are keen for workers to do it though , when your late back from your round that's overtime

What are 'loops' back? Also is overtime paid even for example by 10 minutes being late after failing to deliver in your contracted hours? Thanks

Post by **TrueBlueTerrier** » 21 Sep 2016, 08:05

x11n wrote:
knsue1 wrote:The interview says overtime isn't compulsory ,they are keen for workers to do it though , when your late back from your round that's overtime
What are 'loops' back? Also is overtime paid even for example by 10 minutes being late after failing to deliver in your contracted hours? Thanks

Loops back - its actually just Loops - basically where you start and finish 1 bag. "Bring loops back" - please ignore until you start being trained. In this job too much information before you start and get the context and meaning can be confusing and dangerous if one members' office on here does something different to the way your office does.

At my office we don't bring loops back, we leave them in after getting direction from the Manager. Posties bringing back loops in my office are usually suspended.

MrsL2016 · Post by **MrsL2016** » 22 Sep 2016, 13:06

Thank you for your answers.

Do you know any posties who only do 20/25 hrs?

Post by **TrueBlueTerrier** » 22 Sep 2016, 14:25

I know one who does only 8.

If you can't do more than your contract advise your manager and/or trainer on the first opportunity.

PBgirl · Post by **PBgirl** » 22 Sep 2016, 17:05

I'm on a 24 hr contract 4 days a week

Post by **Sunflower14** » 07 Oct 2016, 19:00

I've got my induction on the 1st November and start work on the 2nd Nov, can someone please let me know what to wear on my first day as postwoman (driving)? I know I can't order the uniform until I start the role

Mellican · Post by **Mellican** » 08 Oct 2016, 08:28

PBgirl wrote:I'm on a 24 hr contract 4 days a week

That's what I'm going to be on, starting 4 November. What's your average week tho?

Post by **fb1969** » 08 Oct 2016, 19:58

Sunflower14 wrote:I've got my induction on the 1st November and start work on the 2nd Nov, can someone please let me know what to wear on my first day as postwoman (driving)? I know I can't order the uniform until I start the role

Comfortable, loose fitting and suitable for the weather. Jeans may seem a good idea, but if it is warm you will get very hot and if it is wet they will retain the water. Ideally something with a few pockets as well. The logo of the make should be ok, but no slogans etc.

Similar applies with footwear, good tread and comfortable fitting - but be aware that with the walking involved you may well go through the tread very quickly. When I started I bought a £9 pair of trainers and they just managed to last one week! Sports Direct sell some Slazenger trainers for around £18-20 I think, and they lasted pretty well for me.

Post by **Sunflower14** » 08 Oct 2016, 22:55

Thank you for the advice fb1969 Think I might invest in some combat trousers

Post by **fb1969** » 09 Oct 2016, 08:29

Combat trousers with pockets are good. Make sure it is something you would wear anyway, just in case you get uniform early on and are stuck with them!

Post by **Sunflower14** » 09 Oct 2016, 11:37

I will do. Would you recommend buying a top and fleece in the Royal Mail colours while I wait for the uniform?

Post by **TrueBlueTerrier** » 09 Oct 2016, 13:07

No don't worry about corporate colours, you'll be given a hi-vis vest to cover everything anyway, and to identify you, so buy something that you find comfortable. Don't forget waterproofs either, the bad weather must be only just around the corner.