Forrest Group Newsletter Edition 36 - December 2024

How to manage workplace challenges during the festive period.?

The festive season can be exciting and fun, but it can also bring unique challenges to the workplace. These challenges require thoughtful management to ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities while feeling safe and supported in the workplace.??

Here are five key workplace issues to keep in mind this Christmas:?

• Holiday Leave Requests: Balancing annual leave during the festive season can be tricky. Clear communication and fair allocation are essential to avoid conflicts and ensure everyone has the chance to enjoy the holidays.
• Inclusive Celebrations: Not everyone celebrates Christmas, so it’s important to create festivities that are welcoming and respectful of all beliefs and traditions. Inclusive celebrations help strengthen team unity.
• Office Parties: End-of-year celebrations can boost morale, but setting clear expectations beforehand ensures all events remain enjoyable for everyone.
• Seasonal Stress: Increased workloads and tight deadlines can take a toll on your team. Provide support where possible, encourage open communication, and consider ways to reduce unnecessary pressure.
• Secret Santa Etiquette: While fun, gift-giving can occasionally create awkward moments. Setting simple guidelines helps keep the experience lighthearted and inclusive.

Taking proactive steps to address these seasonal challenges can show your team members they’re valued while maintaining a supportive and productive workplace.?

If you’d like guidance on managing workplace issues during the festive season, get in touch with us today.

With 2025 approaching, is your payroll operating effectively??

As we approach the end of another year, now is the perfect time to ensure your payroll processes are up to scratch. From updating tax codes to reviewing employee records and processing year-end reports, a thorough payroll check can help you avoid costly errors and ensure compliance with the latest regulations.?

Key areas to focus on include:?

• National Insurance Changes: Ensure your systems are updated to reflect the new thresholds and rates for 2025.
• Employee Bonuses: If you’re awarding year-end bonuses, make sure they are processed correctly and on time.
• Statutory Payments: Check updates to statutory rates for sick pay, family leave pay, and other statutory payments to stay compliant.

A well organised payroll keeps your business running smoothly and reinforces trust and satisfaction among your employees.?

Need help getting started? Contact our team for tailored payroll support and advice.

Is your workplace ready to tackle sexual harassment effectively in 2025??

As we near the end of 2024, now is the perfect time to prioritise creating a safer and more respectful workplace. Ensuring your team is equipped to handle sexual harassment effectively is not just about compliance; it’s about making sure your employees feel safe and supported.??

Our training sessions include two tailored options to suit your business needs:?

• Staff Training: This program focuses on educating employees about how to identify, prevent, and respond to sexual harassment in the workplace.
• Manager Training: A more in-depth option designed to provide leaders with the tools to address complaints sensitively while maintaining team support and productivity.

Each session is carefully designed to provide a safe and approachable learning environment. We understand that discussing sexual harassment can be challenging, so our experienced trainers ensure that all participants feel supported and engaged.

Additionally, we recommend scheduling regular refresher courses to keep your team proactive and up to date with the latest best practices. Ongoing training demonstrates your commitment to maintaining a respectful workplace while mitigating potential risks.?

Secure your 2025 training slot today and take the first step towards building a safer workplace for your employees. Contact us now to discuss your options.

The festivities are in full swing, but is your workplace staying safe this December??

As the year draws to a close, December often brings unique health and safety considerations for workplaces. From holiday decorations to mental wellbeing, it’s essential to keep your team safe while embracing the festive spirit.?

• Festive Decorations: Ensure decorations are securely placed and do not obstruct walkways, exits, or safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers.
• Electrical Safety: Only use tested and approved lights for office decorations and avoid overloading sockets to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
• Mental Wellbeing: Remember the importance of mental health during the busy festive season. Encourage open communication and support employees who feel overwhelmed.

Addressing these areas can help ensure a safe and enjoyable December for everyone in your workplace. If you need support, contact our experts.?

Our CEO, Sophie Forrest-Lavery, will be featured in the latest issue of the Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.?

The article details a round-up of all the latest HR developments that have shaped 2024.??

You can check out the article online and hard copy next week.

The team will be taking a break over the festive period, our last day in the office will be Friday 20th December, but we will be back at our desks from Thursday 2nd January.? We will be keeping an eye on emails for any urgent needs during this period.?

The Forrest Group team wish you all a healthy and peaceful Christmas and a very prosperous New Year!