Nick Hurley and Amelia McRae write for Law360 on preventing harassment at office holiday parties and beyond
With the festive season upon us, many of us are celebrating the end of another year's hard work with our colleagues. For many, this will involve a Christmas party!
With the bubbles flowing, the dance floor in full swing, you and your colleagues shouting "It's Christmas!" in unison with Noddy Holder at the top of your lungs, it's easy to forget that these events can create an appreciable risk for employers — especially with regard to the pitfalls of sexual harassment.
On Oct. 26, 2024, the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 came into force and introduced a new duty for employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their employees in the course of their employment. Therefore, all employers are now required to proactively prevent sexual harassment in the workplace — which includes a Christmas party, even if it's outside of the office.
In an article for Law 360, Nick Hurley, Head of Employment, and Amelia McRae, Trainee Solicitor, explain what you need to know, what steps you need to take at all times of year, and some suggestions to ensure a safe and enjoyable office Christmas party.
Read the full article here.
