Taylor Hampton Comments: news on sexual abuse during medical examinations in the Army
Hundreds of women who served in the British Army have come forward with allegations of sexual abuse during medical examinations conducted as part of their recruitment process.
Wiltshire Police has confirmed it is leading a nationwide investigation into medical checks carried out between the 1970s and 2016. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said it is fully cooperating with the inquiry and urged anyone with further information to contact the police.
Where did the alleged abuse take place?
Defence sources have told the BBC that civilian doctors conducted medical examinations during this period. However, investigators believe the alleged abuse took place at multiple army recruitment sites across the country. While no suspects have yet been identified, the force has confirmed that reports point to “non-recent” offences spanning several decades.
Having transferred the investigation from military police to Wiltshire Police earlier this year, the volume of complaints of sexual abuse during medical examinations made the scale of the issue clear.
A Widespread and Historic Problem
The MoD described the allegations as “alarming” and commended those who have spoken out for their courage. It remains unclear whether the investigation will expand to include women who joined the Royal Navy or RAF during the same period.
Gemma Morgan, a former Army officer and author of Pink Camouflage, said she was “aghast but not surprised” by the emerging evidence. She explained that sexual misconduct within the military is often compounded by its strict hierarchy and culture of silence.
“With military sexual trauma, the environment is closed and hierarchical,” she told BBC Radio 4. “You have limited access to justice or support systems because the Army is in control. They can end your career overnight and too often, you become the problem when you ask for help.”
Ms Morgan added that medical examinations are often a recruit’s first experience of military life, making the alleged breaches of trust particularly distressing. Althoug she acknowledged that the MOD has made some improvements, but called for “deeper change beyond policy.”
Recent Deaths: Call for Accountability and Reform
Recent tragedies have added urgency to these discussions. Gunner Jaysley Beck, who died in 2021 at Larkhill Camp in Wiltshire, had previously reported harassment from a senior colleague. Her complaint resulted only in a “minor sanction.” Similar concerns emerged following the death of Officer Cadet Olivia Perks in Berkshire in 2019.
Professor Anthony King, an expert in war studies at the University of Exeter, said the situation highlights a wider issue of systemic accountability. His 2022 report into women’s experiences in the British Army, only made public this year following a Freedom of Information request, found that many women still face structural barriers and cultural hostility.
“Clearly this is a deeply disturbing situation,” he said. “The fact that the alleged offences occurred on army premises suggests institutional responsibility. The Army must become a place where women are accepted as full members of the force. That requires real organisational change.”
Legal and Institutional Implications
This large-scale investigation could lead to significant consequences for both individuals and institutions. If evidence confirms systemic failings, the MoD may face renewed scrutiny over its handling of safeguarding, oversight of contractors, and internal reporting processes.
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Taylor Hampton Solicitors will continue to monitor developments in this case of sexual abuse during medical examinations. Certainly, it raises important questions about institutional accountability, duty of care and access to justice for victims of historical abuse.
In particular, those affected by similar experiences with the MOD, should seek independent legal advice to understand their rights and options for redress. If this relates to you or someone close to you, contact us on 0207 427 5970 or [email protected]
Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always seek professional legal advice tailored to your specific situation before acting.