Royal Mail strikes will continue to affect postal dates in October and November, with the firm saying delays are likely to be significant.
A total of 21 days of strike action have been organised.
Around 115,000 staff are walking out over pay and conditions in what the Communication Workers’ Union (CWU) says is the biggest national strike of any sector this year.
Twenty-one days will be affected by the strikes, which the union says will have a “dramatic impact” on peak periods such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the run-up to Christmas.
In addition to today (Thursday), strikes have so far been confirmed for October 20, 25 and 28, and November 28.
These are likely to be the days with the worst disruption as it involves delivery and collection staff, as well as those who sort parcels and letters.
Royal Mail says it’s “doing what we can” to keep services running but customers are warned of “significant disruption”.
Key points include the following:
- No letters will be delivered (apart from Special Delivery).
- Any items posted the day before, during, or in the days after these dates could be delayed.
- Special Delivery mail will still be prioritised “as resources allow”
- Next-day guarantees are being suspended and customers can’t claim compensation for delays.
- Tracked 24 mail, including medical prescription items and COVID tests, will be prioritised but people are warned to expect delays.
- Delivery Offices and Customer Service Points will be closed.
- Post Offices will stay open and offer their usual services but Royal Mail collections will be limited.
- People can still drop mail at post boxes but there will be fewer collections and items face delays.