South Africans are calling out “toxic workplaces” after a Standard Bank female employee jumped to her death off the sixth floor of their Head Office in Johannesburg. According to reports, the woman had confided to her employees about her mental health struggles, weeks before her suicide
The woman’s death came just days before World Mental Health Day on 10 October.
STANDARD BANK EMPLOYEE COMMITS SUICIDE
According to a tweet from the Crime SA X account, an unidentified woman allegedly jumped off the seventh floor of the Standard Bank Head Office buildings in Johannesburg.
The account tweeted: “It is alleged that the female employee has been complaining about her mental status weeks before.”
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the woman’s death and revealed that they were investigating an inquest docket.
In a statement, Standard Bank responded to the tragedy.
It said: “Standard Bank is deeply saddened to confirm a tragic incident involving a colleague who unfortunately fell at our 30 Baker Street offices in Johannesburg.
“Regrettably, this resulted in the loss of our colleague’s life. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues during this difficult time.
“Emergency services responded to provide the necessary assistance, and investigations by the relevant authorities, with the participation of Standard Bank, are ongoing.
“We remain committed to supporting those affected. We extend our deepest sympathies to our colleague’s loved ones.
SOUTH AFRICANS REACT TO ‘TOXIC WORKPLACE’
On social media, the woman’s death and claims that she “warned” her Standard Bank employees that she was struggling did not sit well with many South Africans.
Many were also upset at the company’s wording in their vague statement, which they labelled an “incident” and not a “suicide”.
@Pearl_Ndlazi: “‘Fell or jumped’? Can you confirm or deny the victim had raised concerns about their mental health and what the company did back then? What assistance was immediately given to her colleagues?”
@SejamoholoSello: “It’s all about the money and targets for these guys. They don’t care about employee wellness.”
@MissLollyG: “What’s even more saddening is that we just had World Mental Health Day this week! As a company, y’all have failed your employees!”
@KerryleeMeyers: “You failed to take accountability for your toxic work environment! Disgusting”
@TheAdamDeane: “Fell? Now you’re just being disrespectful.”
HOW DO YOU THINK STANDARD BANK SHOULD HAVE RESPONDED TO THE EMPLOYEE’S CONCERNS, AND DEATH?
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