Staff Christmas parties could bring a whole host of unwanted
festive gifts for Shropshire employers.
Lisa Batchelor, from Martin-Kaye LLP Solicitors, in Telford,
said after such a difficult year, many employers would already have
planned to reward their staff with a Christmas get-together.
"But such work-related social events can lead to all kinds of
problems unless you make it clear in advance just what you expect
from your employees.
"Staff who are in the festive spirit may well be tempted to
drink too much and this can lead to arguments, inappropriate
behaviour, and even violence.
"Some staff may also behave inappropriately by telling offensive
jokes or harassing other guests - and it's not just men who are
capable of such antics, women can be just as guilty."
The difficulty is that if someone attends a function linked to
their employment, the employer can be held responsible for their
actions.
"So without being a killjoy before the festivities have even
started, it makes sense to spell out to all employees what type of
behaviour is expected of them at the event.
"Write out a statement explaining that misconduct will be
treated seriously and that you will take disciplinary action if it
occurs. And when it comes to something that could be taken as gross
misconduct, such as fighting with a colleague or the misuse of
illegal drugs, remind them this could lead to them losing their job
altogether."
Lisa said another common problem was staff calling in sick the
day after the party when their illness may, or may not, be as a
result of a hangover.
"Make it clear this is unacceptable and that they must not drink
excessively, and that any sickness absence after the party could
lead to disciplinary action particularly if it's
self-inflicted."
She said partners or guests who attended would also be expected
to behave well, and if they acted badly, employers should not
hesitate to ask them to leave.
"Everyone deserves to let their hair down at the end of a
difficult working year, but it's important that your staff and
their guests know just what is acceptable at a Christmas party and
what's likely to get them into trouble.
"No-one wants to put a dampener on the festivities, but equally,
as the employer you must protect yourself and your business from
out-of-control employees who go too far."