Preparing for the Christmas Party


Clare Whight


Christmas is fast approaching and some Companies find themselves with problems on their hands partic- ularly the fallout from the office party or organised celebrations. Some people can


get over-enthusiastic in anticipation of and during celebratory events.


As a responsible employer you will want everyone to have fun but equal- ly you should be aware of your responsibilities and your duty of care towards your staff. Following a few simple steps will help you achieve this without cries of "bah humbug!".


By preparing and thinking about potential problems in advance it may help minimise the risk of problems and employment tribunal claims occurring afterwards. Remember, not everyone celebrates Christmas and New Year and it can be stressful being pressurised into celebrating some- thing that may be against your beliefs, so always allow for this when making arrangements. However, regulations on religion and belief do not outlaw traditional customs.


Firstly, have your policies and proce-


dures in place now, especially those that cover issues such as absence management, bullying and harass- ment, alcohol abuse, discipline and grievance because then you are in a much better position to handle issues which can arise at any time.


Health and Safety is another impor- tant area to consider, so reminding all staff that in accordance with The Health & Safety at Work Act (1974), all employees have a duty to take rea- sonable care to avoid injury to them- selves and others and must co-oper- ate with the Company and others in meeting statutory requirements of the Act is well worth doing.


This short list contains practical tips and advice on things to consider:


 Managing Absence and


Sickness Leave - Having your Policy up-to-date before the party.


 Discrimination - Be mindful


not to exclude anyone.  Drugs and Alcohol Policy - If


you're going to be serving alcohol at a party - make sure you've read through your company's alcohol policy first.


 Decorations - Christmas


tree lights & decorations must meet modern safety standards and be test- ed accordingly.


 Party Food - Follow the


'Managing Food Safely' guidance in order to produce food safely.


 Gambling Policy - Let every-


one know the company's stance on gambling, betting, sweepstakes, chari- table collections and the selling of raffle tickets.


For further information on a policy, HR advice or guidance please contact SOS-HR 01473 276170.


Woodbridge Probus Club News


The monthly meeting of the Woodbridge Probus Club was held on Monday 3 October at the Waldringfield Golf Club. This month's post-lunch talk was presented by Mr David Commings on the subject of metal detecting. Mr Commings is a founding member of the "Ipswich and District Metal Detecting Club" and over the course of forty years has accumulated a wealth of fascinating and historically important items dating as far back as the Romans. Many of these were on display at the meeting.


Several of his finds are at the British and Ipswich museums. Mr Commings presented a series of slides depicting a large variety of items originating mainly from fields near Coddenham. These were vividly brought to life by his keen enthusiasm and extensive knowledge gained through his many years of experience.


The Woodbridge Probus Club is a luncheon club for retired professional and businessmen "over 50". It has been in existence for 34 years and its aim is entirely social. We meet once a month at Waldringfield Golf Club where you will be made welcome and enjoy getting to know other members.


We always welcome enquires about membership from retired or semi-retired professional and business gentlemen. If you are at all interested, please contact our membership secretary, Bryan Cooper on 01394 461148.


Martlesham Brass


Making Music Fun in East Anglia


Congratulations to all our members who received awards at our recent 15th Birthday Concert, especially Mary Aldous


who became our first non-player 'Bandsperson of the Year' for her out- standing work as Band Treasurer over many years. Our next event is 'Tea and Tunes' on Saturday 5th November when our Preliminary Band showcase their talents at St Michael's Church Centre, Martlesham Heath starting at 10am. Refreshments are available all morning - please come along and support the Preliminary players.


We are holding a Beetle Drive on Saturday 19th November also at St Michael's at 7pm - tickets £2.50 including 'nibbles', so if you fancy having a go please ring 07802 868924 .Two other advance notices to put in your diaries - Coffee and Carols on Saturday 3rd December and our Christmas concert on Saturday 17th December both at St Michael's Church Centre, Martlesham Heath.


Our band welcomes new players young and old, with or without experi- ence. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and feel that you would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below.


Liz Benyon. (Publicity Officer) liz.benyon@btinternet.com 01473 623276.


Please mention the Flyer when responding to advertisements. www.flyeronline.co.uk


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