Preparing Your Organisation for a Safe and Supportive Christmas Season
As the festive season approaches, organisations are often caught up in planning end-of-year functions, finalising projects, and setting the stage for the new year. While these events offer a chance to celebrate achievements and foster connection, they also present unique challenges, particularly around safeguarding, workplace conduct, and support for individuals affected by trauma. The holiday period can be a time of heightened stress and reflection, and it’s essential for organisations to take proactive steps to create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.
Prioritising Safeguarding in End-of-Year Functions
Celebratory gatherings can, unfortunately, be occasions where misconduct may occur, especially if boundaries are blurred. Organisations have a responsibility to create an environment where everyone feels safe and valued. The introduction of positive duties around sexual harassment last year has underscored the need for organisations to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment and discrimination proactively.
Tips for Safeguarding Your End-of-Year Functions:
Set Clear Expectations: Remind employees of your organisation’s code of conduct and behavioural expectations. Clear communication before events can set a positive tone and reinforce the commitment to a safe workplace.
Offer Supportive Resources: Consider providing information about confidential reporting mechanisms and the availability of support services. Employees need to know there are safe ways to report any concerns. Download and circulate Respect@Work factsheets
Appoint Responsible Contacts: Having identifiable team members present who can support staff during events can help reassure people that their wellbeing is a priority.
Reflecting on Your Organisation’s Safeguarding Efforts
The end of the year is also a natural time to assess and reinforce safeguarding strategies within your organisation. This includes evaluating the policies and practices around child safety and harassment prevention to ensure they align with best practices and recent legislative changes.
Consider conducting a safeguarding audit that includes:
Reviewing Incident Reporting Processes: Are they effective, confidential, and accessible to all?
Providing / Reviewing Training: Ensure employees are up-to-date on identifying, reporting, and responding to misconduct and harassment.
Assessing Your Organisation’s Culture: Does your workplace culture genuinely support respect and safety? A supportive culture is the foundation of an effective safeguarding approach.
Supporting the Wellbeing of Victims and Survivors
While the holiday season can be joyous, it can also be a challenging time for individuals affected by abuse, trauma, or harassment. Organisations that prioritise wellbeing and show sensitivity to these needs foster a stronger, more inclusive community.
Ways to Support Wellbeing During the Festive Season:
Encourage Self-Care and Flexibility: Provide additional resources or mental health support options that can assist employees in coping with seasonal stress or emotional challenges.
Promote a Culture of Empathy: Encourage team members to be mindful of each other’s unique needs, as this can be a sensitive time for many.
Prepare Managers for Supportive Conversations: Equip managers with the tools to offer empathetic support and guidance if someone expresses a need for additional help during the season.
Looking Ahead: Committing to a Safer New Year
Ending the year with a renewed commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing can set a positive precedent for the coming year. By proactively addressing safeguarding and creating a culture of respect, organisations not only meet their positive duties but also foster a stronger, more resilient workplace for all.
Let this holiday season be a time of reflection, renewal, and reinforcement of your commitment to a safe and supportive work environment, paving the way for a positive and respectful new year.