Workplace expert, Acas, has published some top tips today to help employers prepare for potential issues that could arise over the World Cup period.
The World Cup is a big sporting event for many employees who may want to follow their favourite football team and enjoy the event. Some staff may want to book time off to go to the World Cup or attend special group events in the UK. Others will want to use the internet or their phones to stay updated on the match results.
Acas advises employers and small businesses to plan ahead and have agreements in place that cover requests for time off, sickness absence, website use during working hours or watching TV during this period.
Acas Chief Executive Susan Clews said:
The 2022 World Cup will take place in Qatar between Sunday 20 November and Sunday 18 December. Due to the time difference, football match start times in the UK will vary between 10am and 7pm.
Acas offers some top tips for employers to consider for the World Cup.
Time off
Employers may wish to look at being a little more flexible when allowing employees time off during this period and employees should remember that it may not always be possible to book a holiday. The key is for both parties to try and come to an agreement. All requests for leave should be considered fairly. A consistent approach should be applied for holiday requests for other major sporting events too as not everyone likes football!
Sickness absence
Employers may want to remind staff that their sickness and attendance policies will still apply during the World Cup. Any unauthorised absence, patterns of absence or late attendance are likely be investigated and could result in formal proceedings.
Flexibility
One possible option is to have a more flexible working day. Employees could come in a little later or finish sooner and then agree when this time can be made up.
Allowing staff to listen to the radio or watch the TV may be another possible option. Employers could also allow staff to take a break during match times. Another option is to look at allowing staff to swap shifts with their manager's permission.
It is important to be fair and consistent with all staff if you allow additional benefits during the World Cup. Any change in hours or flexibility in working hours should be approved before the event.
Use of social media and websites
There may be an increase in the use of social media or websites covering the 2022 World Cup.
Employers may wish to remind staff of any policies regarding the use of social networking and websites during working hours. The policies should be clear on what is and is not acceptable web use.
Further information and training
You can find:
- advice on absence
- advice on flexible working
- Acas training on holiday, sickness and absence
- Acas training on flexible working