And finally, it wouldn’t be the festive season without some Christmas party advice! The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) has commented that many businesses find themselves with problems on their hands over the Christmas period, particularly the fall-out from the office party.

Rita Donaghy, ACAS Chair, said:

‘If companies have policies and procedures in place which cover the key issues like discipline and grievance, bullying and harassment, discrimination and absence they are in a much better position to handle these sorts of issues which can happen at any time, not just at Christmas.

Our helpline staff are very broad-minded and with many years' experience of giving advice on employment relations the chances are they have heard it before. So if you do have any employment relations queries give them a call. I'm confident they will be able to help.

But don't let potential hazards put you off organising something for Christmas. Staff will feel valued if you treat them right. Think about asking them what they want to do and ask for suggestions on how to cater for any problems upfront."

• Do you have any responsibilities towards an employee who has clearly drunk too much at the office Christmas party and is planning to drive home?
• How do you stop the office party getting out of hand in the first place?
• How do you ensure employees are at work the morning after the Christmas party?
• Do Christmas decorations pose a health and safety issue? Or are they in breach of religious and belief regulations?

Meanwhile a survey, see the article link below, reveals some interesting facts about employees’ thoughts on the festivities and the generosity of some employers.

Internet link: ACAS advice    and    Article

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