In unprecedented times, from the moment of waking up, greater thought is put in to how we are going to get through the day. With a higher stress level than usual on how to keep ourselves safe while the company that employs us have acted too slowly in recognising the seriousness of the situation that the country is in.
 
Upon entering the building the immediate worry of maintaining the 2 metre social distancing with minimal space available is thrust upon us due to so many delivery offices under one roof.
 
As I progress though the building it soon becomes apparent due to the increase of parcels that space is of a premium which again causes problems with social distancing . After a slow start social distancing signs were implemented.
 
Leaving the office to go out on delivery is almost a blessing as for the first time in the morning you wont have the worry of space being the main concern.
 
Due to performing a rural delivery I feel part of the community, I feel appreciated as well as being asked how I am and how my family are with many people thanking me for my efforts . I have a large amount of elderly customers on my delivery and although I cannot do what I usually do with the reduction of physical contact I still like to make sure they are ok or if they need anything for example any shopping or medication picked up.

I can safely say that for the first time since starting 20 years ago I feel we are certainly more appreciated along side the NHS and other key workers.
 
I hope as a result Royal Mail management realises how important we are to the social structure of society in times of crisis and reassess the direction the company intends to go.

I am proud to be your local postie - say thank you to yours today. 
 
Sarah White
Dartford unit rep