CWU: This deal would not have happened without the bravery shown by striking Post Office workers
UK Post Office workers are to vote on a deal that could secure a 9% pay rise, substantial lump sum payments, and a wide array of additional benefits. This dispute is unrelated to the Royal Mail Group dispute, which remains unresolved.
Following negotiations with Post Office management, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) announced on Friday that a deal has been reached. Key aspects of the deal include:
– A consolidated pay increase of 9% from 1st April 2023;
– Lump sum payments for all workers ranging between £1,925 and £3,000;
– Entitlement to 30 days annual leave to be dropped from 10 years’ service to seven;
– Fully-paid paternity leave to increase from two weeks to three weeks;
– Parental bereavement leave to increase from two weeks to three months;
– Removal of the entry rate for a Counter Clerk in Crown Offices, ensuring a pay uplift (on top of the 9% pay increase) for workers with less than six months’ service;
– Night duty allowance in supply chain work will be for time worked within the 19:00-07:15 window, rather than the current 1-hour minimum before becoming eligible.
The agreement, which has been unanimously endorsed by the union’s postal executive, will now be put to the ballot of members, with voting beginning early next week and closing on Tuesday 11th April.
Since Spring 2022, Post Office workers have been in dispute against an imposed pay freeze by Post Office management.
A series of eight strikes and various other forms of industrial action from May to December led to stoppages at all 114 Crown Post Offices, as well as huge disruption in supply chain work.
CWU Deputy General Secretary Andy Furey said: “We would like to thank our Post Office members for their support throughout the dispute.
“This agreement could not have been reached without their unwavering commitment.
“We would also like to thank our representatives for their valuable assistance.
“This agreement is the best that can be achieved via these negotiations and as such, the Postal Executive is recommending our members support the agreement by voting yes in the forthcoming ballot.”
CWU General Secretary Dave Ward said: “This deal simply would not have happened without the bravery shown by striking Post Office workers all through last year.
“Without their clear determination, this dispute couldn’t have moved on to where we are now.
“They should be proud of themselves, and I hope they let their voices be heard in this upcoming ballot.”
