Date: 27th November 2007

DECK THE OFFICE WITH BELLS AND HOLLY

From excesses of alcohol to a kiss under the mistletoe that goes too far, every year the Christmas party is plagued with potential pitfalls. However, says employee health and wellbeing experts FirstAssist Services, the Christmas party can be the perfect way to thank staff for their hard work and round-up a successful year without the high jinks.

"It is easy to forget in a party setting, that staff behaviour needs to be considered as much as any other time," says Kevin Dewhurst of FirstAssist. "Inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour at the Christmas party is still very much the employer’s responsibility."

The notoriety of the Christmas party has led to around 80% of British* bosses cancelling festivities because they fear the problems - absenteeism, misconduct, harassment, bullying, drink-driving or accidents - that can result. But rather than just cancelling Christmas, surely there is a better way?

"The key to a successful party is to pre-empt all of these issues by setting out clear guidelines of unacceptable behaviour," explains Kevin. It may sound like you are being a killjoy but by spending the time before the party, making employees aware of what is considered unacceptable, could save a lot of hassle in the long-term."

Reviewing your companies drink and drugs policy in time for the festive season may be advisable as some people are likely to embrace the Christmas spirit more literally than others. And ensuring managers are aware of company procedures and are equipped to deal with such issues is crucial.

The final thing to remember is to deal with problems that may arise, swiftly but proportionally. Action is essential on the day of the party and complaints must be taken seriously as failure to do so could result in a damaging and costly tribunal.

"The Christmas party need not be a minefield, fraught with danger," concludes Kevin. "With a little preparation and by keeping a clear head, you can be sure your party can go with the right sort of bang!"

FIRSTASSIST’S TOP TIPS FOR A STRESS FREE CHRISTMAS PARTY

• Ensure disciplinary procedures are up to date with current legislation such as the smoking ban and ensure employees are aware that they still apply during social occasions
• Give managers the tools they need to enforce company policy
• Pre-empt potential problems by issuing a clear statement before the party outlining unacceptable behaviour, e.g. excessive drinking, taking drugs or violence
• Employers/organisers should avoid too much alcohol themselves, so that they can keep a clear eye on proceedings
• Consider limiting the volume of alcohol available or liaising with bar staff to ensure excessive alcohol is not consumed during the evening.
• Always take complaints seriously and deal with it properly. Follow up any incidents with an interview and if necessary disciplinary action
• If possible, hold the party on the eve of a non-working day, but if this isn’t possible make it clear that staff are expected to be fit to attend work the next day
• Provide transport to and from the party and remind staff not to drink and drive.

ENDS
November 2007

*According to a survey of 3,500 businesses by Peninsula Business Services Ltd conducted in 2005.

For further press information please contact Justine Hoadley or Matt Rickard at HSL on 0208 977 9132 or email Justine@harrisonsadler.com

Notes to Editors

FirstAssist Services is a leading health and wellbeing provider, delivering advice, care and business solutions to both individuals and organisations. FirstAssist provides a full range of risk managed solutions in the healthcare, wellbeing, business protection and advice markets. The company has Investor in People status and holds ISO 9001:2000 accreditation in many areas of its business. Operating 24/7, FirstAssist has offices in Hinckley and Purley.

For information on the full range of FirstAssist's products and services please visit www.firstassist.co.uk