Ministry of Defence had pledged support to inquiry into Sexual Abuse allegations
The MoD and historical medical examinations – What has happened?
Revealed in a recent BBC article, hundreds of women who served in the British Army have come forwards with allegations of sexual abuse during medical examinations – a required part of the recruitment process.
A national inquiry into the matter is currently ongoing, handled by Wiltshire Police. Allegations range from the 1970s to 2016, and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) supports the ongoing action.
Survivors of abuse are never alone
If you are struggling to cope and experiencing difficult times, turn to family and friends for extra support if possible.
If it feels like you have nobody to turn to, there is a list of charities and organisations to reach out to at the bottom of this article.
In an absolute emergency, contact the emergency services by phoning 999.
What is happening with the abuse investigation?
A national investigation is underway by Wiltshire Police, looking into allegations of sexual abuse made during army recruitment medical examinations between the 1970s and up to 2016.
Whether or not the scope of this investigation will extend to include women who who signed up to serve in the Royal Navy and RAF (Royal Air Force) remains to be seen.
Minister for Veterans and People statement
In a Wiltshire Police press release, Minister for Veterans and People, Louise Sandher-Jones MP, stated:
“I commend the bravery of those who have stepped forward to share these painful and truly appalling experiences. I will stand with you every step of the way in your fight for justice and the MOD will give its full backing to Wiltshire Police’s investigation.
“All those who choose to serve our country must be able to do so free from abuse, and with the dignity and respect they deserve. We are committed to rooting out sexual misconduct wherever we find it and have made this a priority since taking office last July. It is a mission that is deeply personal for me.
“I urge anyone who has more information to contact Wiltshire Police as soon as possible.”
Sexual Abuse during military medical examinations – How does it happen?
Sadly, many opportunities for sexual abuse during a military medical examinations can occur.
Medical examinations around the time triggering the examinations were carried out by contracted doctors, defence sources state. Only 17 out of 248 military doctors received Ministry of Defence (MoD) security clearance according to the BBC.
Such complaints and potential causes include:
Inappropriate touching/groping
- Inappropriate questioning
Examinations carried out by contracted doctors
- Lack of proper pathway for complaints
Failure to act on complaints
Coercive behaviour
Sexual assault is a crime
Sexual or physical assault is a criminal offence. Military personnel are protected under UK law, and the Ministry of Defence has a duty of care to protect servicemen and women from harm wherever possible.
Know your legal rights regarding military sexual assault. If you have been abused, you are entitled to seek justice and compensation.
Time limits can be an issue in some aspects of law, but do not be afraid to come forward and make an enquiry.
Depending on the type of claim or how long ago it occurred, several types of action can be sought, including:
- Criminal law claims via the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)
- Claims against the Ministry of Defence
- Civil law claims against individuals
Our team is here to ensure that your matter is handled with the dignity and respect you deserve.
Contact our team on 0113 306 9039 to make a no-obligation enquiry about no-win, no-fee compensation claims for sexual or physical abuse.
Can I make a claim?
If you have been physically or sexually abused during armed forces service, you are entitled to make a claim. Ordinarily, time limits exist, but with recent or historical sexual abuse there are exceptions. We will explain all this in full upon enquiry.
What compensation can I claim for?
Civil claims for sexual or physical abuse can include the following types of compensation:
- General damages – An award of money for the abuse/assaults themselves and for the pain, suffering and any psychological trauma or other emotional effects. It can also cover future losses, including future loss of earnings, future care and/or therapy, rehabilitation, support etc.
- Special damages – An award for any specific financial losses we can prove, such as loss of earnings or the costs of any medical treatment, therapy or counselling.
- Aggravated damages – An additional award of money in certain cases where the court considers that there has been additional distress caused by the manner in which the abuse occurred.
Your case-handler will be able to walk you through every step of the process and answer any questions or ease any concerns you may have. Each case is completely unique, and therefore it must be handled in a way that suits you best as an individual.
How can abuseclaims.co.uk help?
We have years of experience working with current and former armed forces personnel and survivors of sexual and physical abuse. We have a trauma-informed approach, handling each individual with the understanding of the impact that trauma can have.
We offer:
- Free, confidential initial advice
- No-win, no-fee agreement on accepted cases
- Extensive experience with Historic Sexual Abuse cases
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I sue the MOD for sexual abuse during medical exams?
Yes you can. Sexual abuse is a crime and the MoD has a duty of care to protect all employees.
- Are military doctors classed as MOD employees?
This can depend. Each case is completely unique, and we encourage anyone who may be unsure to get in touch.
- What if the abuse occurred years ago?
You are more than likely eligible to claim. With abuse, there are many exceptions regarding time limits due to difficulties when it comes to talking about trauma.
- Will my claim affect my military career?
A legal claim should not affect your careers in the armed forces. The MoD has a duty of care to protect you from any negative treatment. If you do experience it as the result of a claim, they may be open to a further claim for discrimination.
- What evidence do I need?
Any information possible can help to bolster your case. This could be any official report(s) of the abuse made to whichever relevant authority, witnesses, times, names and dates etc. Messages or emails sent discussing the abuse. Counselling taken or other medical appointments attended as a result.
Are there any charities or organisations that can help?
There are many charities and organisations out there who can assist. Here are just a few:
- Mind: 0300 123 3393
- Samaritans: 116 123
- The Survivors Trust: 0808 801 0818
In an absolute emergency and failing all else, contact the emergency services by calling 999.
WHAT TO DO NEXT
If you have suffered abuse during military service, get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation.
Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page or call us on 0113 306 9001.
