Employees Slam Mental Health Firm for Toxic Culture Amid Duke’s Executive Role
Prince Harry is under fire as BetterUp, the mental health firm where he serves as Chief Impact Officer, faces allegations of being a “psychologically unsafe place to work.”
The Duke of Sussex, earning £1 million annually in his role, joined the US-based company in 2021 after relocating to the United States. While actively promoting the company’s mental health mission, Harry now faces backlash as current and former employees paint a bleak picture of the workplace.
Workers have criticised BetterUp as a “toxic train wreck,” with one employee claiming, “Everyone is uncomfortable and living in fear.” Leadership has been described as an “elitist club” lacking both moral compass and self-awareness.
The company holds a low 2.8 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, with reviews highlighting issues such as erratic strategies, excessive spending, and inadequate support for staff. One former employee likened it to a “literal circus,” while a current staff member noted, “If you’re not in the inner circle, good luck to you.”
Additionally, concerns about confidentiality during coaching calls have further undermined the firm’s credibility.
Prince Harry’s role includes advocating for “mental fitness” and guiding BetterUp’s social mission. Despite his high-profile involvement, the controversy surrounding the company’s culture and practices casts a shadow over his association with the firm, raising questions about its commitment to mental health advocacy.