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I have recently started my first job out of university. In my first week, I had to travel to London (HQ) for 3 days for training. The annual Christmas week, also in London, is currently being planned. It involves lunches, a team-building day, party - nothing too essential.

I have a very sick family member, and really don't think I can be away from home so close to Christmas. I just don't think it's worth it should anything happen, and particularly as this trip doesn't seem essential. Although the trip in my first week was difficult, as it was arranged for the sole purpose of training me I felt I had to go.

Flights, etc. for the Christmas trip have already been booked. I have checked the cancellation policies of both the airline and hotel and the company don't stand to lose any money should I cancel. I don't want to rock the boat as a new hire and cause bad feelings.

How should I tell my boss (who I've been getting on very well with), without any major fallout/risk of losing my job?

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    Just tell the truth...
    – Bernhard Barker
    Commented Oct 15, 2017 at 19:48
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    Everyone will understand if you cancel. Family is very important around this holiday, especially if you have someone who is ill. It would be unimaginable to be fired or even reprimanded over something like this.
    – teego1967
    Commented Oct 15, 2017 at 19:55

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Just tell your boss that you can't attend because you have a very sick family member to care for and your ticket home has already been booked. People are understanding when it comes to family situations.

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How should I tell my boss (who I've been getting on very well with), without any major fallout/risk of losing my job?

Tell them now.

Just explain, as you have here, your reasons for choosing to stay close to home. It's the truth, it's clear, and your boss will almost certainly understand. No decent employer would fire you for not attending a holiday party.

But don't wait until the last minute, that wouldn't be fair to the organizers.

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