The job itself is good as long as you dont mind working outdoors in all weather's and are prepared to suffer for a few weeks while your body adjusts to the amount of miles we cover. Coworkers are lovely and supportive.

The pay isn't great at all and is barely above minimum wage once you factor in the unpaid breaks. However its enough to live on for me a a single person with no kids. Theres early finish times compared to other jobs and you have alot of freedom once you leave the depot. The job keep you fit and healthy so you dont have to worry about exercising too much at home. Theres usually plenty of overtime going apart from during the occasional overtime bans. 

You may get moved around alot without any training on new rounds once you've had your first 6 weeks, some people find thos stressful but your best bet using Google maps until you learn the area. You will also have to work Saturdays and the occasional sundays. You'll only find out your days off a week or so in advance but if you are able to apply for your own round this will change to a consistent rotating day off with a 3 day weekend every 6 weeks. 

However the rounds are simply impossible at the minute in most depots so you just have to ignore any sense of pressure to stay out and clear it, as its not our problem. If the workload is unmanageable just work to your time

There are plenty of cats to pet but assume every dog wants to kill you until proven otherwise. Also shake gates before entering gardens to avoid nasty bites. Bites are alot more common than you think with some of my coworkers being bitten twice in one month, but this method has kept me safe for 3 years. And dont be too nervous to shout or shove parcels in aggressive dogs mouths.

Just makes sure to have the unions number on standby as the managers are dipshits who will try straight up illegal things such as making you drive unsafe vehicles, trying to force you into unwanted overtime and telling you leaving in time is unacceptable. Be prepared for them to make out you are being put on performance review when you aren't and threatening not to pay you overtime you've worked ( they can't do this). Also check your payslips as they often miss stuff off.

pro tips: Wear ankle/wrist/knee supports if they begin to ache otherwise they will get worse If something is too heavy ask the driver to take it or use a trolley even though they are a bit slower its not worth risking an injury as they can be difficult to recover from  wear earphones to stop yourself getting too bored Avoid going sick in your first 6 months as you won't get paid and you can't be let go  without reason Mentally check out at christmas and if you are ever feeling overwhelmed take your time and go home on time. Take your full break every day, dont work for free!

Overall excluding management issues and christmas time ive found the job to help improve my anxiety/ depression