A recent study highlights the absence of alcohol policies in workplaces with diverse generations.
- New expectations for employee wellbeing are emerging as multigenerational workforces become common.
- Despite recognising the importance of socialising at work, most employers lack inclusive event guidance.
- Many businesses lack specific policies on responsible alcohol consumption, affecting workplace culture.
- Experts urge employers to adopt inclusive policies to foster a positive and safe work environment.
As the demographic landscape of the workforce evolves, a recent report commissioned by the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD) sheds light on the absence of comprehensive alcohol policies in many workplaces. With four distinct generations coexisting within the same professional settings, employers are facing increasing expectations related to employee health and wellbeing. This study, conducted by the Work Foundation at Lancaster University, underscores the challenges and opportunities presented by multigenerational workforces.
The research highlights that nearly three-quarters (73%) of senior business leaders have observed a more diverse age composition in their workplaces than ever before, attributed to the ageing population and extended working lives. However, despite acknowledging the significance of social interactions, the study reveals that over 80% of employers have neither guidelines for inclusive events nor policies focusing on responsible alcohol consumption. This oversight is particularly relevant to sectors like hospitality, where alcohol frequently features in professional gatherings and social events.
Through a detailed survey involving 1,167 senior business figures across Great Britain, informed by a Survation study and a global roundtable co-facilitated by IARD, the report recommends actionable strategies for fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Key suggestions include rebranding events from ‘drinks’ to ‘socialising’, offering non-alcoholic options, hosting gatherings at diverse times to accommodate various responsibilities, and providing training on recognising alcohol misuse.
Julian Braithwaite from IARD commented on the increasing diversity and flexibility of the post-pandemic workplace, emphasising the need for new initiatives that promote in-person collaboration and team building through social events. Meanwhile, the Work Foundation’s Ben Harrison highlighted the unprecedented generational mix in today’s workforce, stressing that while employers are aware of the advantages this diversity brings, many have yet to implement age-friendly policies effectively.
The report advises that employers should introduce long-term workforce planning and age-inclusive strategies that address modern expectations prioritising health and wellbeing. This includes creating resources to inspire effective alcohol policies and equipping line managers to manage alcohol-related issues sensitively, promoting an environment that respects personal choices while safeguarding collective welfare.
Employers must adopt inclusive alcohol policies to address the evolving needs of a multigenerational workforce.
