Office parties must be about more than just drink, says lawyer

“We are warning employers to expect employee complaints arising out of this year’s Christmas parties and be prepared to carry out investigations," says lawyer

Office parties need to be inclusive of all staff members. Events should be about more than just drink. It would be an idea to host other activities like bowling, escape rooms or a table quiz, advises a leading employment lawyer. Picture: iStock

When hosting a staff party, employers need to remember they have a duty of care for everyone’s wellbeing and that all present should be advised that they’re still legally ‘at work’ while attending a ‘work event’, advises a leading employment lawyer.

Linda Hynes, employment partner with Lewis Silkin Ireland, said: “We have already assisted a number of employers this month, who have had to initiate investigations into employee behaviour arising at Christmas parties. Unfortunately, that trend seems likely to continue.