Everything You Need to Know About Army Sexual Abuse

The British Army is an institution designed to protect a country’s citizens from danger. Unfortunately, this protection is not always extended to its service men and women. Allegations of army sexual abuse are rife, and survivors of this devastating crime fear speaking out due to the esteemed nature of this organisation. 

Women in particular are vulnerable when it comes to army sexual abuse and sexual harassment; the hierarchical and male-dominated nature of the institution can empower abusers to commit these atrocities, knowing that it will likely go unreported due to their victim’s fear of not being believed. 

Last month, a former army general named James Roddis pleaded guilty to disgraceful conduct at military court. Roddis, who is one of the most senior army officers to be court-martialled in the last 200 years, pleaded guilty to playing with a woman’s hair and kissing her without consent. Roddis will be sentenced in September. 

Last year, British Army soldier Corporal Daniel Conway was jailed for over seven years for raping a colleague after a night out. He engaged in non-consensual oral sex while his female colleague was asleep and later penetrated her, however when confronted over WhatsApp he told her “trust me you’re fine, I was wearing a condom.”

Last years whistleblower reports brought to the parliamentary committee reflect the harrowing epidemic of army sexual abuse, mainly impacting female personnel. Eight cases were brought forward that highlighted widespread sexual abuse and harassment and exhibits “a wider culture of institutional misogyny” according to the committee’s then chair, Sarah Atherton MP. 

Army Sexual Abuse and Abuse Claims UK

As specialists in sexual abuse cases, we understand the complex emotions involved in these situations. Our legal team offers compassionate, confidential support to army sexual abuse survivors. Whether the abuse occurred recently or many years ago, the legal system provides pathways to hold perpetrators accountable and secure compensation for damages, including psychological trauma and lost earnings.

If you or someone you know has been affected by army sexual abuse, please reach out to one of our dedicated solicitors on 0151 242 5111 or email us in complete confidence at [email protected].