There are few things more reassuring in the workplace than a sense of unchanging routine, and when this paper was based in Kensington, one of the most agreeable certainties was that, come Thursday midday, there would be a congenial group of colleagues from various papers gravitating towards the Elephant & Castle. If it was fine, we’d sit or stand outside. Most were men and conversation was easygoing and friendly. I would say that for some of us, the thing served the same purpose as therapy, only much less expensive, more congenial and with drink.
And now, a bossy think tank, the Workplace Foundation, allied to the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking, has issued a report that threatens to bring an end to the fun. It wants the after-work drink to be replaced by breakfast socials, online gatherings and away-days, as being more inclusive. This is so people working from home and non-drinkers, especially the young, don’t miss out.
