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24/02/2010
Pratt's Bullying Charity Suspended
An anti-bullying charity at the centre of a row with Downing Street has been suspended.
It is alleged some Whitehall staff had contacted the National Bullying Helpline to vent work-related anguish.
The charity's boss Christine Pratt went public with the allegations prompting several anti-bullying patrons to resign. Ms Pratt has also now offered her resignation.
Gordon Brown has denied bullying staff, with Gus O'Donnell, the head of the UK civil service, defending the Prime Minister.
In a statement today, the charity said rivals with "an axe to grind" had "forced our hand".
"Our patrons have resigned at a time when we needed them most," it said.
"Due to the situation at this time we are temporarily suspending our helpline.
"Competitor anti-bullying charities, individuals with an axe to grind and a few others have forced our hand. We are extremely sorry for any distress this may cause to those who need help right now."
The charity again denied being "politically driven" citing the fact a Labour MP hosted its launch at The House of Commons in April 2007.
"We would be pleased to meet with Gordon Brown, to whom we wish no ill, if it would help to remedy the situation," the statement continued.
"We are currently considering the future of the charity. Christine Pratt is prepared to resign if necessary."
She currently works for the charity unpaid.
"It was never our intention to cause hurt or distress to anyone when we set up a helpline," the statement concluded.
(PR/GK)
It is alleged some Whitehall staff had contacted the National Bullying Helpline to vent work-related anguish.
The charity's boss Christine Pratt went public with the allegations prompting several anti-bullying patrons to resign. Ms Pratt has also now offered her resignation.
Gordon Brown has denied bullying staff, with Gus O'Donnell, the head of the UK civil service, defending the Prime Minister.
In a statement today, the charity said rivals with "an axe to grind" had "forced our hand".
"Our patrons have resigned at a time when we needed them most," it said.
"Due to the situation at this time we are temporarily suspending our helpline.
"Competitor anti-bullying charities, individuals with an axe to grind and a few others have forced our hand. We are extremely sorry for any distress this may cause to those who need help right now."
The charity again denied being "politically driven" citing the fact a Labour MP hosted its launch at The House of Commons in April 2007.
"We would be pleased to meet with Gordon Brown, to whom we wish no ill, if it would help to remedy the situation," the statement continued.
"We are currently considering the future of the charity. Christine Pratt is prepared to resign if necessary."
She currently works for the charity unpaid.
"It was never our intention to cause hurt or distress to anyone when we set up a helpline," the statement concluded.
(PR/GK)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
