Nursery World - Staff - Party time…

Tinsel season is approaching, but work parties can go wrong, and managers need to know the law. HR expert Jacqui Mann explains

[asset_library_tag 1910,Download this article as a pdf]

STAFF PARTIES

Do I need a Christmas party/social event policy?

It’s not necessary to have a separate social event policy. An alternative is to have an employee code of conduct outlining the behaviours expected during work hours or at company events, including the types of behaviour that are unacceptable. Make sure this is communicated to staff before any company event takes place. I would suggest including something in your disciplinary policy that covers employee behaviour at company events.

What are employers liable for?

Employers are vicariously liable (legally responsible) for the acts of their employees carried out ‘in the course of employment’. This can also include time at events organised by the employer that are outside of normal working hours and off company premises. The Court of Appeal recently found an employer to be vicariously liable for the actions of one of its employees following a staff Christmas party (see Case studies).

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included