'I can't handle it' | Woman's death after relentless sexual harassment from boss highlights need for proactive HR measures

A teenaged soldier is believed to have taken her own life after relentless sexual harassment by her immediate superior that saw her receive thousands of messages in the space of two months, according to the findings from an army investigation.

Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck died at Larkhill Camp, Wiltshire, in December 2021. A probe found the 19-year-old had suffered “an intense period of unwelcome behaviour” which was “almost certain” to have been a causal factor in the tragedy.

The inquiry conducted by the Army Personnel Services Group found that Beck had received more than 1,000 WhatsApp messages and voicemails from a superior at Larkhill Camp, in October 2021.

The report explained that the unnamed superior was attempting to pursue a relationship with Beck, who did not reciprocate his feelings due to having a boyfriend.