‘Thanks for carrying on’

As part of our ongoing series of blogs from throughout the business, we’ll continue to bring you stories from colleagues who are doing their bit right across the operation, on how things have changed during the current crisis.

Today, we hear from Radstock postwoman, Kirstie Cotton, who joined the business last year.

Since the crisis began, I have mostly managed to remain my usual laid back and positive self,’ said Kirstie. ‘But a couple of weeks ago, I did start to feel like things were getting on top of me; the extra pressure at work, as well as being unable to see the people I care about and do a lot of the things I wanted to do.

‘Eventually, I spoke to my manager about everything that was going on in my head and was given some extra support over the next few days, which was exactly what I needed. I'm now back on top of things and really enjoying being back at work again!

‘It's so good to know that I can reach out and get that kind of support when I need it. Honestly, I wish I had spoken up sooner. There’s a great sense of camaraderie at Radstock Delivery Office, the whole team are great. We've really pulled together to make sure we're taking care of our customers as best we can.

‘It’s important to remember that we're all going through these mad times together and I feel very fortunate that I have some great friends here at work who understand exactly what I'm going through. It's so important to be able to talk to people who can relate to you when things get a bit tough, and to be able to share the good times too.

‘At home, I have been trying to keep busy, but I do enjoy a nice afternoon laid out in the garden to rest my legs and try to even out that dodgy postie tan we all have! Most weekends, I do a Zoom quiz with a few friends and take the dog exploring. We've found lots of nice local walks that I didn't know about before lockdown. I also enjoy sewing and making things. I've made some nice pannier bags for my bike and customised my ‘Radstock Posties’ t-shirt, which was a 4XL! My managers pulled names out of a hat for the t-shirts. There weren't many size options left by the time my name got pulled, but I didn't mind, I like a good project.

‘I really enjoy the route that I cover as it allows me to meet some really lovely people. There’s a lot that we do in the local community on our day-to-day business, and our customers really appreciate that, particularly those who are more vulnerable.

‘As a key worker during lockdown, it’s important that we continue to provide a lifeline to businesses and communities everywhere as well as helping families stay in touch by delivering things like birthday cards, to keep people connected. This is even more important now that people still can’t meet in the same way as before.

‘Since the lockdown started, I’ve been really impressed by the positive response from our customers. Several people have stopped me to say, “Thanks for carrying on,” and there are lots of lovely messages that people leave on their front doors.

‘One gentleman even gave me a round of applause as I passed his house! The well wishes and thanks always make me smile and it's nice to know that people appreciate that we're still out delivering for our communities.

‘I feel proud that I can keep people connected. It’s really uplifting to see all the support and lovely gestures from customers - it really helps to keep my spirits up during this difficult time.’