Nightmare backlogs of mail ‘a common problem’ MP says after fed up constituents share Royal Mail woes

Nightmare backlogs of mail arriving more than a week late are “a common problem” facing Highland constituents, an MP claims a new survey has revealed.

Drew Hendry, who is MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, launched an online survey earlier this autumn for constituents to share their issues with Royal Mail’s postal deliveries

The move came in response to reports of people receiving hospital appointment letters so late the date had already passed before the mail landed on their mat. He had also heard of people waiting for new bank cards or missing out on concerts because tickets failed to show in time were also reported.

And, now it has concluded, he said his survey’s findings reveal the problems are worryingly common.

Related: DREW HENDRY: Reliable postal service is essential for communities

He said responses revealed a large number of people often going over a week without mail, only to receive a backlog all at once, causing significant distress and inconvenience.

Mr Hendry says that the survey has shone a light on how irregular mail delivery has led to a myriad of issues. One constituent shared a poignant story of how the delay affected the internment of her mother due to undelivered crucial letters from her solicitor and the undertaker.

The Highland MP has reopened dialogue with Royal Mail management to work constructively in addressing these issues, especially as the festive season approaches.

In a letter to the CEO, Simon Thompson, he proposed improved maintenance and acquisition of additional vans, allocation of extra hours, and employment of temporary workers to manage the anticipated surge in demand and ensure timely mail delivery.

One of Mr Hendry’s constituents, Donald from Glen Urquhart, shared his frustration, saying:

“I missed an appointment as I didn’t receive the letter posted six weeks before said appointment. It’s not an isolated case either, I regularly get no mail for several days, only to then receive a bundle of letters.

“Just this week, I received 12 letters on one day after not receiving any for over a week prior to this.”

Commenting Mr Hendry said: “I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the constituents who took the time to respond to the survey. Your feedback is invaluable and shines a light on the pressing need for immediate rectification of the mail delivery service in our area.

“I have engaged once again with the Royal Mail management to seek tangible solutions and ensure that our communities remain well-served. The assurance of a reliable postal service is not merely about convenience but a necessity that binds our communities together. I will continue to push for the necessary changes to ensure effective mail delivery service for all.”

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