It’s that time of year when the workplace Christmas party is nearly here. To join in with the season of goodwill, many employers will reward their staff by hosting a Christmas party. This may be in the workplace, at a hired venue or even an organised (good intentions) pub crawl. Morale is usually high, so it’s important to minimise any staffing issues that may arise as a direct result of the celebrations and make sure your “party” is full of sparkle not sorrow when everyone sobers up.
Everyone should be made aware that any Christmas event that is work related is an extension of the workplace and as such Employers are liable for third party actions.
Also consider, especially for future years, is a Christmas party the way your staff want to celebrate the festive season? Why not ask your staff for their suggestions, maybe form a works choir and arrange carol singing at residential homes, taking gifts for the residents? Whatever you decide to do, remember:
• Events are not compulsory and not everyone may want / can attend
• Ensure non-alcoholic drinks are available as well as alcoholic
• If food is on the menu, ensure all dietary requirements are catered for
• If you have staff with disabilities, ensure the event is accessible for everyone What else should you do to ensure Christmas Sparkle not Sorrow?
• Remind staff that normal rules of behaviour apply even off the premises and that the party venue is an extension of the workplace. As an employer you have a duty of care so you are still responsible at the Company’s Christmas Party.
• Remind staff about discrimination and sex discrimination policies. They need to be reminded that any inappropriate behaviour at the Christmas Party is considered in the same way as working hours.
• Remind staff not to drink and drive and to make suitable arrangements to get home if they want to drink. Consider the use of organising a mini bus to pick up and take people home. If you don’t want to fund this then you could offer to arrange/organise this for staff on the basis that they will have to pay for this service. Have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks available.
• Inform staff that over indulging at the Christmas Party doesn’t excuse them from coming into work the next day. If you operate a Monday to Friday business consider holding the event either on a Friday or Saturday night.
• Remind staff of the risk of being over the limit the morning after drinking.
• Don’t forget to invite staff who are on Maternity /Paternity. You must also include Agency workers, fixed term temporary and part time staff.
• Do not make it compulsory to attend. It might clash with non-Christian religious dates.
• If you employ under 18 years olds you need to consider the venue if you hold it off work premises to ensure that they allow under 18’s on the premises.
• If you are providing alcoholic drinks don’t provide them free all night. Speak with the Bar staff so that they can remain vigilant in case any staff are drunk.
• If an employee becomes intoxicated it is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that the employee is taken home safely.
Just a few simple steps to help keep the Christmas party festive and full of sparkle.
Merry Christmas