Get your team home safely

​The silly season is well under way, however, we thought it might be helpful to provide you with some ideas on how to communicate some last minute reminders as to expectations around appropriate behaviour when it comes to celebrating the end of another big year.
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We don’t want to put a dampener on your festivities, but you know how it goes, we are your HR team and we don’t want to be party poopers but we need to make sure all bases are covered so your team are safe and your business avoids unnecessary drama!

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Our clients know that the HR Staff n’ Stuff team focusses on helping our clients build a happy and engaged culture.  Without doubt, an end of year function that allows everyone to put a line under a couple of really challenging years will go some way to supporting positive team connections and engagement. 
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We are going to keep it simple and give you an outline of the information you should include when communicating with your team so you are clear as to expectations and there are no grey areas that could end in trouble…

1. Let your team know that the communication is to establish behavioral expectations so that everyone can have fun at the celebrations while safety is maintained.  The idea is to celebrate the year end AND get home to your loved ones.
   
   
2. Set out expectations around general behaviour advising that it is still a work event and as such policies such as harassment, bullying and so forth are still in play.  Suggest that your team refresh their knowledge of these policies and advise them as to where they can find them stored so there are no excuses or misunderstandings.
   
   
3. Outline what you are providing in terms of food and beverages.
   
   
4. Confirm that drugs and excessive alcohol consumption are not permitted or tolerated.  You may like to remind those that choose to drink alcohol should also avail themselves of the food that will be available to help manage any effects of drinking.
   
   
5. Confirm the start and end time of the event.  Be very clear that any socialising after the end time should occur in a safe and responsible manner.
   
   
6. Be very clear that those intending to consume alcohol should not drive.  Outline the transport options available:
   - Advise your team if you are covering the cost of a taxi or Uber home or if it is at their own cost.
   - Suggest public transport.
   - Arrange a lift with someone who has not been drinking.
   - Remind those with a company vehicle that they must be well under .05% and if they are allowed to leave the vehicle at the party venue overnight or if they must arrange alternative transportation to the function.
   
   
7. Provide a contact person for the function.  This should be someone who is not drinking alcohol and who can support anyone who becomes unwell or intoxicated and needs assistance getting home safely. 
   
   
8. End the communication with a note underscoring that you are not there to be the fun police but that the spirit of the message is in line with the legal and moral obligations of your business in managing the safety and wellbeing of the entire team while also delivering a celebration all will enjoy. 

As HR consultants, we are well aware that this kind of communication can be seen as tedious but it is essential to outline the obligations every single team member has in keeping each other safe.  No one wants to kick off 2022 dealing with a drama from the 2021 Christmas Party!

If you need assistance in preparing a communication to your team, please contact HR Staff n’ Stuff and we will make sure you have everything set up so you can relax and enjoy 

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