Too hard to organise an end of year celebration with Covid safe restrictions in place?
End of year celebrations are certainly going to look different this year due to the varying Covid-19 restrictions that are in place across Australia. Crowd size, social distancing and location will influence the type of function you will be able to hold.
Though it may be more challenging to organise an event this year, it remains important to stay connected to your employees and to acknowledge their contribution and support at the end of this year of change and challenges.
Whatever celebration event you choose to hold you choose, the usual rules around company events apply regarding standards of behaviour and responsibilities with the additional one this year of ensuring your event meets your state's Covid safe public health order and guidelines.
What are some Covid safe function ideas?
- For a small team, you could reach out to a restaurant for a booking. Keep in mind the restrictions that may be in place with regard to mingling and moving around. Alternatively, decide to hold a small gathering at the office or someone’s home with onsite catering. If an outdoor space is available, this could be a good option to maintain better social distancing and a relaxed fun event.
- Larger companies may prefer to arrange a corporate venue, with the possibility of a “hybrid event” as not all staff will be able to attend due to number and square meters restrictions. This also offers staff who don’t feel comfortable with larger numbers, the chance to join in on the celebrations from home via online meeting platforms. Some catering companies are providing the option for those staff at home to receive a hand delivered meal so they feel that they are well and truly part of the celebrations.
Keep in mind that some staff may have health conditions and feel their health could be compromised by any sort of gathering, in these cases their decision should be accepted and perhaps include them in ways mentioned above.
No matter what size or type of gathering you arrange, remember to complete a Covid-19 safety plan recording the actions you put in place to address the wellbeing of those who will attend; physical distancing; hygiene and cleaning and record keeping.
If you feel that a gathering isn’t the right option, the preferred option for your business may be simply to provide staff with a monetary voucher or gift equivalent to the amount you would have spent on a function.
Please contact the team at Your HRmanager should you wish to discuss any queries you may have with planning your end of year functions.