Staff Christmas parties can provide a great opportunity to reward staff for their hard work during the year, but if things go wrong they can lead to a variety of legal problems for employers.
From allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination to absenteeism and disciplinary issues, the potential risks to employers if staff socials are not managed properly are vast. Worse, a recent Court of Appeal judgment has reinforced that businesses can be held legally responsible for the actions of their employees at staff parties, even including assault and harassment.
With the festive party season in full swing, employers should take appropriate organisational steps to minimise the risk of any problems occurring. In particular, you should consider the following:
DO be inclusive. You should invite all staff members to your Christmas party, including those on maternity and sick leave.
DO cater for everyone. Offer non-alcoholic drink options and cater for specific dietary requirements.
DO make sure your staff handbook is up to date. Remind your staff that your HR policies (eg your disciplinary and anti-bullying and harassment policies) apply at work social events so they should not get too carried away.
DO remind staff about your sickness absence policy to discourage staff from taking unjustified sick leave on the day after your party.
DO follow your normal disciplinary procedures if staff members behave unacceptably at the party.
DO handle any grievances following the party appropriately and through your normal procedures.
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DON’T forget to check the venue to ensure that it is accessible for any disabled staff.
DON’T forget to ensure that your staff can get home easily. Check whether public transport will still be running or consider organising taxis or a minibus.
DON’T allow under-age drinking if any of your staff are under 18.
Visit www.sparqa.com for further guidance about these HR issues, including taking disciplinary action, dealing with grievances and managing sickness absences.
Sparqa also provides comprehensive information about what HR policies and procedures you should have in place when you employ staff.