This blog post explores how to strike the perfect balance between festive fun and legal responsibilities. From managing potential risks to fostering an inclusive and safe environment, we’ll share practical tips to help employers approach the season with confidence. Ensure your Christmas party is a celebration to remember for all the right reasons – not one overshadowed by post-celebration regrets.
As we approach the festive season, many businesses are gearing up for their annual Christmas parties – an opportunity to reflect on another year of hard work, relax, and enjoy a well-earned celebration. At Haddletons, we’re looking forward to our own Christmas gathering (and yes, there’s bottomless prosecco involved!) – but it’s also the perfect time to consider the responsibilities employers have in keeping these events safe and inclusive.
For small teams like ours, where colleagues often feel like family, it’s easy to overlook potential risks. After all, we know each other so well – surely there’s no harm in letting our hair down? But it’s precisely this closeness that can sometimes blur professional boundaries.
Even in the best teams, these scenarios aren’t far-fetched. They might not feel serious in the moment, but they can lead to lasting repercussions for individuals and the company as a whole.
This year, new legislation has raised the stakes for employers, making it essential to understand and address these risks.
The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2020) Act 2023, which came into force on 26th October 2024, introduces a clear duty for employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment. This includes:
The festive season creates unique challenges for organisations. The combination of alcohol, a relaxed environment, and the blurred line between work and personal life can amplify risks that might otherwise seem minor.
