Over recent days, we have seen some interesting stories in the news that touch on HR and employment law. Why not take a look?

‍

Less alcohol at work parties?

Research conducted by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) suggests that about a third of managers have witnessed harassment or other inappropriate behaviour at work parties. Inevitably, the research suggests a link between excessive alcohol consumption and inappropriate behaviour. As a result, the CMI is recommending that employers reassess the emphasis placed on the consumption of alcohol at work events.

Interestingly, there appears to be a correlation between age and a person’s support for alcohol-free social events. According to the CMI’s survey, 48% of managers under the age of 35 are in favour of work events that don’t revolve around alcohol. Support drops to 36% amongst those managers aged over 55.

How much of an emphasis do you place on alcohol at work events? How would your team respond if the consumption of alcohol no longer formed part of your socials?

If you would like to read more about the story, click here.

‍

US sex discrimination claim costs Goldman Sachs dear

An article on the BBC website drew our attention to a payment of $215 million to be made to a group of female workers who have been pursuing a class-action against Goldman Sachs in the US. The women allege that the investment bank paid female employees less than their male counterparts, as well as providing women with fewer opportunities for career advancement. 

Although these legal proceedings have taken place in the US, it begs the question as to whether similar concerns could arise here in the UK. In 2022, in accordance with UK gender pay reporting laws, Goldman Sachs disclosed that the hourly gender pay gap within parts of its business stood at 51.3%. The company claims that the gap reflects “an ongoing imbalance in gender representation at [its] most senior levels”. If true, then a question arises as to what Goldman Sachs (and other similar businesses) are doing to address the imbalance.

If you would like to read more about the US legal proceedings, click here.