Chelsea’s new owners have appointed an “external review team” to investigate allegations of harassment within the club after a New York Times article revealed that conditions in a department at the club led to a “work culture toxic”.
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According to this information, former employee Richard Bignell took his own life in January and the coroner’s report linked the event to “despair after losing his job.”
Chelsea “will investigate the accusations that have been made under previous ownership,” according to a statement referring to the board chaired by Roman Abramovich, who sold the club to American tycoon Toddy Boehly in May.
The commitment of the new board
The statement added: “The new club board believes strongly in a work environment and corporate culture that empowers its employees and ensures they feel safe, included, valued and trusted. The new owners have taken the first steps in instilling an environment consistent with our values.”
Bignell has been described by the club as a “much loved member” and “very popular and highly respected member of the wider football and sports broadcasting family”.
The statement concludes: “Our hearts go out to all of Richard’s family. His passing has been deeply felt by his colleagues at the club and throughout the football community. Upon learning of the circumstances, the new ownership proactively reached out to Richard’s family through their attorney.