Dozens of Royal Mail postal workers attacked by dogs in Sheffield

In the last year, a total of 41 Royal Mail postmen and women were attacked by dogs in areas covered by Sheffield postcodes.

Nationally, there were 2,206 reported. This figure is a 15 per cent increase from the previous year, and works out to be an average of 42 attacks every week, with some leading to permanent and disabling injuries.

Lizz Lloyd, health and safety director at Royal Mail, said: “We are saddened and disappointed to see attacks on our staff continue to increase.

“Dog attacks have a devastating effect on our people, and we are appealing to dog owners to think twice when the postman calls.  All dog attacks can have life changing consequences for victims, even when the physical injury is not significant.

“Almost half of attacks happen at the front door and over a quarter in the front garden, so this is not just a Royal Mail issue, many other organisations face the same problem.”

The figures have been released at the start of the 12th annual Dog Awareness Week, which takes place from July 1-7, and encourages responsible dog ownership. 

Royal Mail is appealing to dog owners to ensure they understand the often-devastating impact of dog attacks on postmen and postwomen, and asking they take proper measures to ensure their pets pose no threat.

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The study revealed that almost half of incidents take place at the front door, while just over a quarter took place in the garden or drive. A further 18 per cent of attacks on postal workers were injuries suffered through the letterbox.

Dave Joyce, national health and safety officer of Communication Workers Union said the aim of Dog Awareness Week is to remind the public of their legal responsibilities to control their dogs, adding that “if their dog attacks a postal worker, they can be prosecuted”.

From July 17, animal welfare charity Blue Cross will be offering a free online webinar called Protect Your Postie. 

This will be offered to dog owners where there is concern due to their pet’s behaviour – but an actual attack has not yet occurred.

The webinar, which lasts about an hour, will provide top tips and advice on how the public can protect postal workers who deliver to their home and includes:

• Understanding why dogs may act a certain way when a postal worker arrives
• Understanding the consequences of an incident 
• Simple measures that can be put in place to help manage a dog’s behaviours
• Motivation for change, so that their dog doesn’t escalate its behaviour to the point that an attack occurs
• Advice on where further help can be found

The course will be delivered on Zoom, and those interested in attending must register for the webinar in advance by clicking here.

Please visit royalmail.com/dogawareness for hints and tips on dog safety.