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When a mining company reduces its work force through collective layoffs or decide to close the entire operation, it often leads to hardships for many. The consequences thereof may even be worse in developing countries where the mining sector is an important contributor to economic stability and where employment is less secure than in developed countries. This chapter discusses the findings of two studies conducted in South African mining communities to illustrate the effects of mine downscaling and closure on the life of the mineworkers and their families. It provides a picture of the lived experiences and perceptions of those who lost their jobs. It also includes their narratives on how they dealt with the loss of their jobs and earnings, what helped them to cope and what they believe could have been done differently.

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