Workplace socials have long been a defining part of company culture. From after-work drinks to team-building days, they’re designed to help teams unwind and connect. But how many employees actually feel that these events are truly inclusive?
To understand how employees really feel about company socials, Capital on Tap surveyed 2,000 UK workers to identify which cities host the most workplace events and what staff think of them. The results reveal which traditions remain valued, which feel outdated, and what employees now prioritise, from wellbeing days and flexible schedules to bonuses and more inclusive activities.
How Inclusive Are Workplace Socials?
Over a third of employees (34.5%) who experience social anxiety feel that workplace socials are not inclusive of their needs. These events can often be overwhelming, making it difficult for socially anxious staff to engage fully or feel comfortable participating.
Similarly, 33.9% of introverted employees report that workplace socials don’t cater to them. Events that are highly social or loud can leave introverts feeling drained or excluded, underscoring the need for a more varied approach to staff engagement.
For neurodivergent employees, 30.6% feel that workplace socials aren’t designed with them in mind. This can include those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, or other neurological differences, who may find typical social formats challenging or inaccessible.
To address this, Alex Miles, Chief Operating Officer at Capital on Tap, says:
“Employers could consider offering a mix of social formats, from smaller, low-pressure gatherings to virtual or interest-based events, ensuring everyone has the chance to participate in a way that feels comfortable and authentic to them.”
Where is Workplace Social Attendance Highest in the UK?
Employees in southern cities attend more workplace socials than those in any other region of the UK.
From summer parties to after-work drinks, regionally, southern cities host the most socials. Employees in Southampton attend the most workplace socials at 4.6 per year, followed by Bristol (4.1), Plymouth (3.6), and London (3.4). These cities tend to have a higher concentration of office-based roles and networking-focused industries, where regular social interaction is part of professional life.
On the other hand, employees in Liverpool (1.4), Glasgow (2.3), and Brighton (2.4) attend the fewest, indicating that potentially smaller, more dispersed teams may have fewer opportunities to socialise outside of work.
How Do Employees Feel About Attending Workplace Socials?
Over a third of employees (35.6%) feel pressured to attend socials.
Employee attitudes towards socials reflect a shift in workplace culture. While some feel pressure or discomfort, appreciation remains strong: nearly half of employees (48.2%) say socials are important for a positive culture, and over half (52.6%) agree they help connect with colleagues they wouldn’t normally work with.
At the other end of the scale, over a third of employees (35.6%) feel pressured to attend socials, with 34.2% worried about being judged by their peers if they don’t. This pressure is particularly common among Generation Z, with 37.7% concerned about judgment compared to just 30.5% of Baby Boomers. A similar trend appears around comfort levels at socials: 33.8% of Gen Z feel unable to decline invitations they receive, while only 26.9% of Baby Boomers feel the same.
Employee Opinions on Different Types of Socials
Christmas parties remain the top choice for workplace socials, with almost one in three employees (31.8%) naming them as their preferred event.
When looking at the most favoured socials, Christmas parties remain the most popular choice, with nearly a third (31.8%) of employees saying it’s their preferred type of event. However, the data shows a clear shift toward more inclusive and varied forms of socialising. Smaller, more frequent gatherings such as coffee catch-ups and lunches (15.85%), followed by daytime events (15.3%) and family-friendly activities (14.7%), are increasingly valued.
Summer parties (14.95%) and one-off annual events (14%) still hold appeal, but many employees have begun to favour experiences that fit around their lifestyles, from creative workshops to low-pressure settings which are alcohol-free. This suggests that while traditional celebrations remain important, employees increasingly prefer flexible, inclusive, and meaningful ways to connect with their peers.
Alex Miles, Chief Operating Officer at Capital on Tap, shares advice on how SMEs can plan financially sound, inclusive events that bring people together without breaking the bank:
“Plan company socials with purpose and people in mind. Focus budgets on what teams value most - inclusive, balanced activities like daytime or family-friendly events that boost engagement without high costs.
Keep finances transparent by using a business credit card to track spending, stay VAT-compliant, and earn rewards to reinvest in future perks, while monitoring costs within HMRC’s £150 allowance.
Finally, redefine rewards by blending low-cost experiences with meaningful benefits, such as wellbeing vouchers or extra leave, supported by clear and inclusive policies. Company celebrations should focus on connection, not extravagance.”
Capital on Tap helps small businesses manage spending, access funding and earn cashback, travel and gift card rewards.