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I was so pleased that our campaign to save Westbourne Post Office was successful and that essential service so many of you rely on continues to be available. I know the lack of a Post Office in Bournemouth Town Centre remains an issue – it was raised during my recent priorities meeting – and I’m trying to get a Post Office back into town centre.
But even if you make it to the Post Office to send your parcel by the last posting date in time for Christmas (Wednesday 17 December for second class, and Saturday 20 December for first class!), the journey is not over. The system only works if Royal Mail delivers the post safely and on time. And it’s clear that is not happening for everyone.
Lots of you have been in touch saying your post has not been delivered, or you’re going days without expected cards or letters – with one constituent even missing a hospital appointment due to these unacceptable delays.
Last month, I visited the local sorting office to learn more about where the issues were and see what might be done to address these. They told me there were a number of staff off sick but were in the process of recruiting more. They said their experienced posties were working hard to ensure they delivered to each house at least every few days, if daily was not possible. Special thanks to all those hardworking posties who walk over 10 miles a day come rain or shine to get our post to us, we really do appreciate you.
But they can only do so much during their shifts and Royal Mail needs to ensure they have what they need to get post out on time. I wrote to Ofcom last week asking them to investigate and help get to the bottom of the problem. While the Government has no direct control over Royal Mail operations, the regulator Ofcom can set targets and fine the company for not meeting these – which, earlier this year, it did.
I’ve also made sure the local hospitals are aware of these issues and urged them to take this into account when relying on letters to inform patients of appointments.
Royal Mail is not the only delivery company we rely on today. I know constituents have had issues with Evri, as have I. Parcels not delivered, delivered to random addresses or even dumped on the street. It’s not just an issue for Bournemouth, it’s happening across the country and we’ve seen companies cancelling contracts with Evri, and problematic drivers let go but the problems remain.
I’ve contacted Evri bosses to request assurances that they will deliver their service at a level sellers and buyers deserve – delivering parcels safely, and on time. I will continue monitoring this closely, and taking action where needed.
If you live in Bournemouth West and have been affected by these delays, please contact me at jessica.toale.mp@parliament.uk
