- Chloe Moffat, 26, took her own life on 20 May last year, the day after a meeting where she was informed of allegations regarding her sharing of sensitive confidential information, which she denied.
- A coroner at Surrey Coroner's Court ruled that the Treasury had 'materially contributed' to Moffat's death by failing to inform her that she would not be dismissed if the allegations were proven true.
- David Moffat, Chloe's father, stated on BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the Treasury exhibited no 'duty of care' and that the lack of support was shocking.
- The Treasury acknowledged the situation, stating it will learn lessons and has implemented immediate changes to its guidance, support, and wellbeing arrangements.
- During the meeting, Chloe was shocked and upset after being accused of sharing sensitive information, and it was agreed she would not have to work for the rest of the day.
- Chloe texted a friend expressing her fear of being fired and later spoke to her mother, who tried to reassure her.
- David Moffat expressed that he and his wife had not seen the Treasury take responsibility for their daughter's death, stating, 'Not yet.'
Chloe Moffat, a 26-year-old personal assistant at the Treasury, tragically took her own life on May 20, 2022, following a distressing meeting with her managers regarding allegations of sharing confidential information. Her father, David Moffat, expressed outrage over the lack of support provided to her during this critical time.1
During the meeting, Chloe was confronted with serious allegations, and despite her requests for clarity on job security and support from a friend, both were denied. David recounted, “Chloe’s first comment was, ‘Oh, this must be serious, there’s two of you here’”, highlighting her immediate concern.
A coroner's inquest revealed that the Treasury had “materially contributed” to her death by failing to adhere to written disciplinary policies, which would have clarified that the potential outcome of the allegations would not lead to dismissal. “There was no safeguarding, there was no support during or after that meeting,” David stated, emphasizing the organization's failure to show a duty of care.
The coroner, Anna Crawford, noted that it was agreed by all that Chloe enjoyed her job, further underscoring the tragedy of her death. David expressed disappointment that the Treasury has yet to take full responsibility, stating, “Not yet”. In response, the Treasury has pledged to learn from this tragedy and implement immediate changes to their support systems.
A Treasury spokesperson conveyed their condolences, stating, “The Treasury's deepest sympathies continue to be with Chloe's friends and family”.
“The coroner found the Treasury did not apply its written disciplinary policy, which would have made clear that the likely penalty was a written warning, not dismissal. David Moffat said he and his wife received a letter from permanent secretary James Bowler but felt the department had not yet taken responsibility.”
BBC
