Organisations across the UK are failing to reward their staff at Christmas, but employees are creating their own festive cheer, according to a new survey.
The research conducted amongst 2400 managers by the Chartered Management Institute, reveals that despite expectations, almost 80% of organisations no longer give a Christmas bonus and more than half require staff to work during the festive period.
Percentage of organisations, by region, that do give Christmas bonuses
Scotland – 27%
South West – 19%
North East – 11%
West Midlands – 23%
North West – 20%
South East – 29%
London – 13%
East Anglia – 17%
Yorkshire – 6%
Northern Ireland – 29%
Wales – 20%
This lack of merriment is a growing trend, as a year ago almost 90% of the managers questioned said that their organisation provides a Christmas party, compared to two-thirds, this year. Of those companies willing to host festivities, 65% demand that staff contribute to events. Over three-quarters ask employees to pay £20 or more towards workplace celebrations, but requests for contributions differ widely across regions. Only 30% of employees in Wales are asked to put their hand in their pocket, compared to almost 80% in the North-East.
The research also shows that organisations fear business will suffer during the run up to Christmas because of a tendency to party. Over one-fifth specifically claim ‘morning after’ absenteeism as a problem and one third reveal concerns over staff shortages and supplier payments.
“Rather than bemoan potential disruption, organisations should make provisions and consider the long-term benefit of showing appreciation to their staff,” says Karen Charlesworth, head of research at the Institute.
The research revealed that despite an apparent lack of Christmas cheer within UK workplaces, many managers and their staff seek to create their own festive fun. Over 70% share gifts at work, and 25% participate in a ‘Secret Santa’ lucky dip.
Employers in the charity sector are the most likely to use the Christmas period to build team spirit. Over two-thirds (67%) give staff time off without counting it against an individual’s annual holiday allowance. However, reflecting the fears of disruption to business, only 28% of
manufacturing sector employees provide holiday time in addition to core entitlement.
“The idea of giving may not be strong within organisational cultures, but it is alive and well amongst managers and their staff,” says Charlesworth. It’s a simple way of showing appreciation for each other’s efforts at work and can go a long way towards creating a close-knit team.”
