Wednesday 8 December 2010

Christmas - crackers!


Employees should not behave any differently at the office Christmas party than they would in the workplace, according to the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS).

A spokesperson for the organisation has warned that behaviour is subject to the same rules regarding discrimination and harassment as it would be during an ordinary day at work. He said that it can be helpful for bosses to remind their staff of this fact before the party, to avoid any misunderstandings further along the line.

"Employers should have a quiet word with their staff before the party to alert them to the legal situation," the spokesperson said. At a party, things may get said that wouldn't normally. The party is not the place to raise a complaint, no matter how right it may seem at the time."

Meanwhile, he also reminded employers to remember that not every member of their workforce will necessarily celebrate Christmas or enjoy Christmas. ACAS said it is important to make sure that they are not left "holding the fort" while everyone else is out enjoying themselves. "It makes a lot of sense for colleagues to keep an eye out for each other. And finally remember to have fun," the spokesperson noted.

APA

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