If, like us here at DFA Law, you are in the process of booking your staff Christmas party, there are a number of HR issues for employers to consider, even if the party is not at the usual place of work.
A cocktail of alcohol, different personalities or cultures and a general party atmosphere all might sound like a good idea, but you should be mindful that a Christmas party is an extension of the workplace.
For some, the thought of spending an evening with colleagues (or even worse, bosses!) might sound painful but it does provide a chance to relax, unwind and maybe speak to and socialise with colleagues that you perhaps wouldn’t ordinarily get the opportunity to.
It is important for employers to remember that all staff must be treated equally and invited to attend. This includes those who might work from home and those on any form of leave.
Managing Partner
DFA Law
Without wishing to sound like a killjoy, where a free bar is to be provided at a party, this might encourage excessive consumption of alcohol and so it would be prudent to remind everyone attending that they should drink responsibly.
On the flip side, employers should ensure that there are non-alcoholic drinks available for those that do not want to drink alcohol.
In advance of the party, you might also wish to consider sending a firm wide email reminding everyone of their personal responsibilities.
There are numerous examples of employment tribunal cases being brought as a result of actions or events from a work Christmas party. These vary from vicarious responsibility (Bellman v Northampton Recruitment Limited) to bullying or harassment, but employers can pre-empt issues arising from the works Christmas party by considering some of the above as well as making sure the company policies and procedures are up to date.
It would be remiss of me not to mention that if you do need any help in creating or updating your company’s policies, my colleagues in our employment law team would be happy to help.
With all that being said, you can certainly still have fun and enjoy the party – I know everyone at DFA are planning to do so!
Contact DFA Law on 01604 609560 or visit our website here.
