Lucy Knight writes in the Guardian that Secret Santa can pose workplace risks if poorly managed. Anonymous or “jokey” gifts can humiliate recipients, trigger grievances and, in serious cases, amount to harassment. HR specialists warn against gifts that reference personal traits, trauma, health, sexuality, alcohol or food sensitivities. Knight adds that many organisations now mitigate risk through opt-outs, spending limits, named gifts, wishlists or outright bans, recognising that festive activities should not undermine psychological safety, inclusion or professionalism at work.
