Is a major sporting event a morale boost or a disruption in the workplace?

The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship is underway and the tournament has 24 nations taking part between 14th June and the final on 14th July.

Employers are likely to see a significant amount of interest among their workforce, particularly given that England and Scotland have both qualified for the tournament.  Also, with a diverse multicultural workforce there is likely to be interest from many nationalities supporting their home teams or adopted nations.  This can create an element of fun and playful banter, but it can all too soon turn into an employer’s nightmare.

Employers can plan to make the most of the impact that this large sporting event can have on staff mental health and morale, while also planning to minimise disruption.

The tournament may give rise to several work-related issues including increased sickness absence, competing requests for annual leave, excessive internet use, gambling and sweepstakes, complaints of inappropriate comments and/or behaviour and lower productivity.

After Euro 2024 the Olympic Games will be starting in Paris and a policy on action to be taken during major sporting events can be useful, especially to avoid disruption!  Employers may want to clarify company policy around arrangements for booking annual leave; any temporary flexible working arrangements; measures to avoid and deal with unauthorised absence; internet and streaming use; alcohol consumption; and how issues such as poor timekeeping will be dealt with.

Of course, any flexibility given during a major sporting event can be temporary and would be given as a privilege and you would reserve the right to amend or withdraw it at any time.

If you need a policy or any guidance, please contact SOS-HR for assistance on 01473 276170 or email us at soshr@sos-hr.co.uk