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Party on but work from home

That is the message from Government, which leaves employers with a tangle of guidance to unravel during the festive season.

From Monday, employees should work from home if they can. This means employers should encourage staff to work from home unless it is not possible for them to do so. They should also be making sure remote staff have everything they need to work effectively from home, both practically and from a wellbeing perspective, and that they are fully supported to do so.

On the topic of Christmas parties, the guidance from government is that these can still go ahead. As an employer, you will need to consider whether your staff are still willing to attend. If the majority are, then there is no need to cancel the plans. However, you should also consider the needs of any staff who are reluctant or vulnerable. They may feel excluded if the party goes ahead and they do not feel safe attending. It may be worth considering a virtual social event  instead or as well.

For in person parties, decide whether you will require everyone to take a lateral flow test beforehand and if there are any other steps that can be taken to reduce risk, such as providing guidance on behaviour and social distancing. Work Christmas parties are classed as work time and, as an employer, you therefore have a duty of care to ensure a safe environment.