Welsh employers are among the most generous in the UK when it comes to Christmas parties, new research from the Chartered Management Institute has revealed.
As many as 14 per cent of employers in Wales spend more than £81 per head on the office Christmas party, compared to just one per cent of employers in the south-east of England.
Thirty-four per cent of employers make no financial contribution towards the end-of-year party at all, however, despite 72 per cent of organisations holding them for staff.
And this was not the only area where Christmas spirit appeared to be failing. Around 44 per cent of managers surveyed by the firm said that the atmosphere at office parties was "forced", while one in five said they only went out of a sense of duty.
More than two thirds (68 per cent) of managers said that they thought twice before agreeing to host a party, while 31 per cent believed discrimination laws would have an impact on parties and 26 per cent feared an increase in tribunals.
Jo Causon of the Chartered Management Institute said: "Although employers are fearful of the impact discrimination legislation may have, it is essential they take the time to thank staff for their efforts.
"Parties do not have to be extravagant, but a little thanks can go a long way in creating a better atmosphere in the workplace."
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