Is there a sadder phrase in the English language than “booze-free work drinks”? Being forced to spend time with people you’re usually paid to talk to, only this time for free, already feels like a step in the wrong direction. But having to do it without the compensation of a free glass of wine? Unthinkable.

And yet it’s apparently the direction of change, because a new report from the Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR) suggests that work drinks are making us less productive and worse at our jobs, and warns that “alcohol poses a significant threat to the UK’s economic performance”. The solution? Alcohol-free events and alcohol harm training from HR.

The report goes on to advise: “This harm is especially concerning in the public sector, where taxpayers foot the bill for avoidable

See Full Page