Legal assistance for victims of sexual assault in the military.
In a recent BBC investigation, several former service members have come forward to share their experiences sexual assault in the military, and the long-term impact those traumas have had on their lives and careers.
Among them was a former seaman who described being assaulted just six months into her service. At the time, she chose not to report it because she said sexual assault in the military was so common it felt like part of the culture. “You’ve either got to leave or carry on with your career,” she explained. It wasn’t until a decade later that she reported another incident. The impact on her mental health from the assaults themselves, as well as working alongside her abusers, was severe. She was later medically discharged for mental health-related reasons, against her wishes
Another woman, who served in the RAF, shared an account of being assaulted by men in uniform. She now lives with PTSD, epilepsy, memory loss, and chronic depression. Along with many other victims her career was fundamentally impacted.
At Slee Blackwell, our Legal 500 recommended abuse team, led by partner Elizabeth Duncan, is nationally recognised for its compassionate and client-focused approach. Elizabeth is well known for creating a safe, supportive environment where survivors of abuse feel heard and respected.
“I fully agree that the cases highlighted in the BBC report aren’t just isolated incidents,” said Elizabeth. “They’re part of a deeply flawed system within our armed forces that has failed to support so many victims of sexual assault.”
Elizabeth’s team specialises in complex sexual abuse cases, including those in military service, and we are proud to have received the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme Bronze Award. The team understands just how devastating psychological harm in particular can be on the victim’s ability to continue serving and progress their career.
We offer victims a free and fully confidential consultation by phone or email. They will listen to your story, assess the legal merits of the case, and provide you with details of No Win, No Fee funding.
So, if you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or abuse while serving in the armed forces, please do not hesitate to contact us for expert legal advice and support.
Call us on 0333 888 0404 or send an email to [email protected]
