Charity Patron Resigns Over Confidentiality Breach Concerns

Strategic Insights -

A high-profile charity, at the centre of allegations of bullying against Gordon Brown, has been dealt a blow as one of its patrons has resigned, citing a breach of confidentiality. Professor Cary Cooper, a respected expert on workplace stress, has stepped down from his position as patron of the National Bullying Helpline, citing concerns over the charity's handling of sensitive information. The move comes after the charity's founder, Christine Pratt, revealed that it had received several calls from Downing Street, including information about the employer, despite assurances of confidentiality.

Key Takeaways:

  • Professor Cary Cooper, a renowned expert on workplace stress, has resigned as patron of the National Bullying Helpline, citing a breach of confidentiality.
  • The charity received several calls from Downing Street, including information about the employer, despite assurances of confidentiality.
  • The charity's founder, Christine Pratt, has admitted receiving phone calls of support from Tory MPs, but maintains that this is "irrelevant".
  • The allegations against Gordon Brown have been denied by Lord Mandelson, who claims the Prime Minister can be "emotional and demanding" but is not a bully.
  • The charity has come under pressure to investigate the allegations of bullying against Gordon Brown.
  • David Cameron and Nick Clegg have both condemned the allegations, with the Conservative Party leader stating that Brown has a "tough and demanding" leadership style.
  • Christine Pratt has claimed that the charity had received several calls from Downing Street staff, amid suggestions in a new book that the Prime Minister had been warned over his behaviour.

Statistics:

  • Professor Cary Cooper has resigned as patron of the National Bullying Helpline due to concerns over confidentiality breaches.
  • The charity received several calls from Downing Street, including information about the employer.
  • Christine Pratt has admitted receiving phone calls of support from Tory MPs.
  • Lord Mandelson has defended Gordon Brown, stating that while he can be "emotional and demanding", he is not a bully.

Sources:

  • "Gordon Brown bullying row: Charity patron quits over confidentiality concerns", The Telegraph, [no date]
  • "National Bullying Helpline row: Pressure mounts on Christine Pratt", The Daily Mail, [no date]