Don’t score an own goal by missing work to watch Euro 2016

Coodes employment lawyer Philip Sayers gives his advice to employees who want to take time off to watch the football during the European Cup.

“An estimated 500,000 British fans are due to cross the channel for Euro 2016. Most of us, however, will have to contend with watching the matches on the TV or online. So what happens when key fixtures coincide with our working hours?

“Leading employment advice body Acas has issued guidance for Euro 2016, which suggests workplaces should try to be flexible but acknowledges that this may not always be possible. For employees, the key take home message is not to expect any different arrangements during the European Championship. If you want to take time off to watch a match, you should follow your company’s annual leave process, which may mean booking in early.

“During the European Cup, businesses are likely to be on high alert regarding sickness absence and personal website useage. This means, if you phone in sick and are then seen out watching a match in a pub or if your sickness pattern follows the England fixtures, it is likely to be noticed and you could face disciplinary proceedings. Similarly your company may respond to an increase in the use of social networking sites of sporting websites and their protocol on personal website use will come into play.

“If you are in any doubt as to what the arrangements are, or how to go about taking time off during Euro 2016, talk to your employer as soon as possible. You may be lucky enough to be offered flexible arrangements, but don’t expect it and be prepared to get your leave requests in early.”

For further advice and assistance on any of these issues, please contact Philip Sayers by emailing philip.sayers@coodes.co.uk or calling 01872 246200.