The Festive Season is fast approaching - are you ready!?

Are you having a Staff Christmas Party this year? -  If so, this is the time of year when HR are traditionally bombarded with questions about it. Many companies find this a minefield and worry about breaching numerous employment laws around this time. It's true, the staff Christmas party can be fraught with difficulties but, as always, my advice is to apply a little common sense.

• Christmas is a religious festival (although in these days of commercialism this is sometimes forgotten!). However, the staff Christmas party is generally seen as a way of thanking staff for their hard work and commitment rather than as a religious celebration. If you make this clear in communications about your party you should not offend non-Christian employees.
• Be mindful of staff who do not drink alcohol, either by choice or religion, and select the venue/theme for your party carefully in accordance with your workforce. Make sure non-alcoholic drinks are available.
• There is no doubt that alcohol can play a part in unwanted behaviour which could be deemed as harassment or discrimination. Ask someone responsible not to drink alcohol at the party so they can monitor, and deal with, inappropriate behaviour if necessary.
• Make sure that different dietary requirements are catered for, whether on the grounds of preference or religion.
• Think about the timing of your party - does it discriminate against particular groups, eg Orthodox Jews who have to be home an hour before dusk on a Friday for the start of their Sabbath.
• Your chosen venue should have adequate health & safety procedures in place but it is wise to check this yourself ahead of the event.
• Make sure physical assistance or adjustments are in place for disabled staff.
• Finally, remind your staff that they will be representing the company when at the party and therefore your policies still apply with regard to appropriate behaviour and what will, and won't, be tolerated.

You need to get these messages across to staff in a positive way so everyone has an enjoyable event but you ensure you are complying with employment legislation and your Company is covered in the event of things getting out of hand!

Happy party season everyone.