The Christmas season has a big impact on most businesses and employees in the UK. It will be a time when there is likely to be extra demand for products, services and sales in some businesses, whilst others may experience a quiet period or shut down for the Christmas holidays.

This year, Christmas Day (25 December 2022), falls on a Sunday and Boxing Day falls on a Monday, which means Tuesday 27 December 2022 will be a bank holiday.

Many employees will request time off to spend time with their family, go on holiday or attend religious services. Employees working over the Christmas period may experience different working patterns, a change in the nature of their workload or face difficulties getting to and from work.

An organisation’s annual leave policy should give guidance on how to book time off. However, employers may wish to look at being a little more flexible when allowing employees leave during this period.

The key is for both parties to try to come to an agreement and plan as early as possible while being fair and consistent with all staff.

See: Bank holidays and Christmas: Checking holiday entitlement – Acas