to not to want to buy my team christmas presents?

[jnmum]

I am a joint manager of a small team at work and the tradition is we buy the team presents. Last year it was a bottle of champagne each. But even though I am a manager and therefore earn a bit more, I only work part time and am a single parent. I don't have any spare money and am going to struggle to buy my family and my son presents this year.

Last year we went on a Christmas meal and we will this year which costs me a fortune in a babysitter (as well as the meal).

I hardly ever go out and am not sure what to do.

I don't want to come across as mean but just don't know what to do...

any advice

What is the other joint manager doing? Could you get a token gift between you? Or get the company to pay?

the company definatly won't pay...it's the council! the other joint manager and I go halves normally, but this year I have voluntarily cut my hours so earn much less. The other joint manager works full time and has a partner...

Home-made biscuits then? Or suggest a secret santa.

If you were my manager i would appreciate you honestly telling us where you stood. Then bringing a huge tin of roses to share as a token.
Your team would be pretty mean not to accept your honesty

I don't and wouldn't expect my manager to fork out on a gift, however a thank you is always appreciated.

Agree with Janice, in that homemade biscuits to share would be a lovely and thoughtfelt treat...

Served with a nice cup of tea (if facilities allowed) excellent!!!!