Maddy Cusack Inquest Hears 2023 Contract Cut Pay as Mental Health Stigma Fears Grew
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 29
Maddy Cusack Inquest Hears 2023 Contract Cut Pay as Mental Health Stigma Fears Grew
2 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 29
Summary
Chesterfield Coroner's Court heard Maddy Cusack feared being stigmatised and ridiculed if she disclosed mental health struggles before her death at 27 in September 2023.
David Cusack said her anxiety and loss of motivation deepened after coach Jonathan Morgan joined Sheffield United in February 2023 and after a June full-time playing contract left her earning less.
The inquest heard she was working up to seven days a week across football and marketing, became unwell by July and August, and felt she had "no future" because she could not sustain both roles.
GP Dr Bhatti said Cusack was anxious, unable to sleep and had worrying thoughts, but asked for a sick note to say only "generally unwell" rather than a specific diagnosis.
Sheffield United offered no psychotherapy or other support, her father told the court; the club's December 2023 investigation found no wrongdoing, and the inquest continues.