The death of a Treasury worker was "materially contributed" to by her employers, an inquest at Surrey Coroner's Court has heard. Chloe Moffat, 26, died on May 20 of last year, the day after a meeting with managers where she was informed of allegations that she had shared sensitive confidential information about colleagues, which she denied.
The inquest concluded with a verdict of suicide. Evidence presented indicated that the Treasury did not adhere to its written disciplinary policy. This policy would have clarified that if the allegations were proven, the likely consequence would have been a written warning, not dismissal.
Moffat's family stated that they believe the Treasury failed in its duty of care. "When she needed support, reassurance and fair treatment, she was left frightened, isolated and convinced her career and reputation had been destroyed," the family said in a statement.
According to reports, Moffat attended what she expected to be a routine one-to-one meeting with her line manager on May 19. However, a more senior manager was also present. During this meeting, she was informed of the allegations regarding the misuse of confidential information obtained through her role as a personal assistant to a Treasury director.
A spokesperson for the Treasury acknowledged the findings and stated the department was "considering the findings carefully."