Christmas 2024: Do I Have to Attend a Staff Christmas Party?

December is a matter of days away, meaning the staff Christmas party is just around the corner. For many, this is an exciting time, as they get to celebrate the year’s success, but for others, the thought brings dread. 

Below, we discuss the motives behind a company Christmas party and whether employees should attend. We explore why individuals may decide not to go and whether they would face any subsequent repercussions.

If you have any questions about your employee rights in the workplace or are currently experiencing employment issues, please reach out. Redmans Solicitors are employment law specialists who, with our years of experience, can provide expert advice. To learn more about the help we provide, simply:

Why Have a Staff Christmas Party?

A staff Christmas party has become commonplace during the festive period. It is a time when colleagues get together to have fun and celebrate the year gone by. Many employers will host such events to show appreciation for their employee’s hard work throughout the year and boost morale in a casual team bonding environment.

Often, a company Christmas party will involve food, alcohol and other festivities. However, in recent years, activities like mini golf or going to an escape room have become more common. Regardless of what’s organised, though, these events are seen as a way to reward staff and strengthen colleague relationships.

Should I go to my Work’s Christmas Party?

Aside from the potential to have fun with colleagues, a company Christmas party can provide a host of benefits. For starters, participating in workplace events helps demonstrate one’s active engagement with the company culture. Organisations invest tremendously in creating their culture, and getting on board can help employees feel more involved.

Yet, there are other benefits that may be more appealing still. When employees attend such events, it provides a unique opportunity to forge stronger working relationships and network with senior management. Handled correctly, this could open the door to new opportunities and help propel one’s career.

Is it Rude Not to Go to a Christmas Party?

That being said, while some see a staff Christmas party as fun or a networking opportunity, others may dread it. Typically, such feelings arise when employees suffer from social anxiety, have concerns about potential misconduct, or worry about their finances. Alternatively, it may just be that the employee has prior commitments or simply doesn’t celebrate the religious occasion.

Whatever the reason, though, not wanting or being able to attend may leave the employee worried about appearing rude. In such circumstances, it’s crucial the employee remembers there’s no legal requirement to turn up. 

In most cases, simply communicating the genuine reason for non-attendance will be sufficient to gain the employer’s understanding. It may even prompt the employer to make adjustments to make the social gathering more accommodating.

Reasons Employees Might Skip a Staff Christmas Party

As mentioned, there can be several reasons employees might not attend a staff Christmas party. If they had prior commitments, such as childcare or a family gathering, this will likely take precedence. However, even if employees aren’t busy, they may still not want to attend. Among other things, this could be because of:

  • Social Anxiety – Some people find large social gatherings, like a staff Christmas party, overwhelming due to their social anxiety. Thus, not attending is usually the preferred option.
  • Religious Beliefs – Those who aren’t religious or whose faith doesn’t include Christmas may not feel inclined to celebrate it.
  • Financial Concerns – Money is often a key factor in decision-making, especially during the current cost of living crisis. Employees facing financial challenges during the festive season may choose to skip certain expenses, such as attending work socials.
  • Potential Misconduct – Behavioral issues can deter employees from attending a company Christmas party. Whether or not they’ve experienced misconduct before, incidents like sexual harassment or fights can arise, particularly when alcohol is involved. To avoid such situations altogether, some employees may opt out of attending.

Work Celebrations: The Law

It goes without saying that employees aren’t legally obligated to attend a staff Christmas party. Employers who attempt to pressure attendance risk breaching workplace rights, potentially leading to claims like discrimination. And even for events held during work hours, where attendance may be expected, employers must respect individual circumstances, such as those opting out for religious reasons.

Any legal obligation concerning such events, therefore, usually falls on the employer. In addition to not forcing their staff to attend, employers must:

  • Remain Inclusive – Employers must ensure their events are accessible to all staff, as excluding certain employees could violate employee rights in the workplace. Failing to accommodate remote workers, for example, could be avoided by hosting online events, such as quizzes.
  • Uphold Their Duty of Care – Staff parties are often considered an extension of work, meaning employers could be vicariously liable for employee conduct. Consequently, employers must uphold their duty of care and ensure proper measures are in place to manage behaviour. This could include implementing policies of expected behaviour and acting swiftly, in line with ACAS guidelines, if an incident arises.
  • Avoid Punishing Non-Attendance – Employees may have various reasons for not attending a staff Christmas party. Employers must ensure that opting out doesn’t have negative consequences or affect career prospects, as this could lead to discrimination claims.

However, while employers bear the weight of responsibility concerning work events, employees must be mindful. Since such gatherings are an extension of work, individuals can still face disciplinary action for inappropriate behaviour. Because of this, knowing how to act remains essential.

Get Help with Redmans

We hope this article answered your questions about your staff Christmas party. If you have any employment issues or believe your workplace rights have been breached, contact Redmans Solicitors now.

It may be that your employer is forcing you to attend, or you have unfortunately experienced some form of misconduct. As specialists in the employment law sector, we can answer your queries and provide expert advice on your possible next steps.

Begin your journey with us now by: