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.
Picture this:
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.
Christmas parties aren’t just another work event. They bring together a mix of colleagues, sometimes clients, in a social setting where the usual professional boundaries are naturally relaxed. Add alcohol, and the chances of misunderstanding or misbehaviour increase significantly.
For small teams like ours, the dynamics are even more complex. While we value the close relationships and camaraderie we’ve built, these very qualities can sometimes make it harder to navigate boundaries. The stakes are higher when trust and morale are on the line.
So, how do you strike the right balance between celebration and caution without feeling like the festive fun police? Here are some steps we’re taking at Haddletons – and that you might consider too:
Communicate before the event that it’s an opportunity to have fun and celebrate – but that respect and professionalism remain key. Remind employees that everyone deserves to enjoy the event in a safe and inclusive atmosphere.
Communicate before the event that it’s an opportunity to have fun and celebrate – but that respect and professionalism remain key. Remind employees that everyone deserves to enjoy the event in a safe and inclusive atmosphere.
Communicate before the event that it’s an opportunity to have fun and celebrate – but that respect and professionalism remain key. Remind employees that everyone deserves to enjoy the event in a safe and inclusive atmosphere.
Communicate before the event that it’s an opportunity to have fun and celebrate – but that respect and professionalism remain key. Remind employees that everyone deserves to enjoy the event in a safe and inclusive atmosphere.
