To think I’m not really invited to the work Xmas do?

[Jinnybean]

I’m a support worker, Iv been working at my work for 2 years now. At first I was volunteering and then they begged me to join so I did but as bank staff, as my husband works shifts and with young kids I can’t commit to nights every week day. I do work a lot though and do probably 2/3/4 shifts a week between supported houses and the base.

Work asked me to cover Friday 17th December but I couldn’t as my Dh is on nights.

I found out on Thursday that there is a Christmas party meal thing on the 17th. I only known if it because it was in the staff room and other staff who have been there a few months were talking about it.

I messaged my manager asking if it’s for all staff or just contracted (which btw I think it’s rubbish that I don’t get bonuses etc even though Iv covered loads over covid).

My manager replied that her priority is covering the houses and she already asked me to do it but I couldn’t as my husband was at work. And it’s for all staff.

So I replied that yes he’s on nights but my MIL or daughter could babysit for me. So she replied “ok you’re welcome to come”

I’m not going. I really wanted to but I really feel like I’m not welcome.

I’m guessing they were hoping I could cover so the contracted staff could go and enjoy themselves.

@MalcolmTuckersBollockingface

Bank staff tend to fill in the gap of planned and unplanned staff absences. I have never worked anywhere where bank staff were not considered part of the staff team. Obviously, if a causal member of staff didn’t want to attend the Xmas do then it would be a no brainer to ask then if they wanted to cover the shift.

At most places I have worked with this set up, we have booked agency staff to cover, allowing all staff the opportunity to attend if they wish.

I suppose it varies but we never use agency staff and we certainly wouldn't leave the whole place staffed by people who didn't know the residents.

We found the best solution was to have 2 dos so half the team working/half at the do, the swapped a few days later. You do need a big enough team to make it still feel festive and a pain for managers and admin staff who are expected to go to both.