Session 2024-25

Armed Forces Commissioner Bill

Written evidence submitted by Forward Assist (AFCB02)

The Armed Forces Commissioner Bill

Forward Assist is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting veterans, with a significant focus on addressing Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Their initiatives encompass research, advocacy, and tailored support services for both male and female survivors.

Advocacy and Awareness:

Forward Assist actively campaigns to raise awareness about MST and its profound impact on veterans. They highlight concerns such as the lack of engagement from the Ministry of Defence and the military charity sector regarding MST, and the absence of recognition for MST in the UK despite its prevalence. Through their comprehensive research and dedicated services, Forward Assist plays a pivotal role in supporting MST survivors and advocating for systemic changes to address and prevent military sexual trauma.

In the United Kingdom, the term "Military Sexual Trauma" (MST) is not officially recognised as a distinct category within the military healthcare or legal systems. Instead, incidents of sexual harassment and assault involving military personnel are addressed under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, which encompasses offenses such as rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration.

While the specific terminology of MST is not utilised, the UK acknowledges the prevalence and impact of sexual offenses within its military. Research indicates that servicewomen who experience sexual trauma during their military careers are twice as likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The lack of formal recognition of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) within the UK military and broader health and legal systems can indeed contribute to suicidal behaviours among survivors. This stems from the compounded psychological harm and institutional neglect that survivors may experience. Without official recognition, survivors may feel that their experiences are invalid or dismissed. This sense of invisibility can exacerbate feelings of shame and worthlessness. Stigma associated with sexual trauma, coupled with the military's hierarchical structure, may discourage survivors from reporting incidents or seeking help, further isolating them. Survivors often fear retaliation or being blamed for "damaging" the reputation of their unit, leading to self-blame and despair. MST often results in PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Without recognition, appropriate treatments tailored to the unique nature of MST-related trauma may not be accessible. Research consistently links untreated PTSD and trauma to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The longer these issues remain unaddressed, the greater the risk. Navigating systems that do not acknowledge or cater to the needs of MST survivors can intensify feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Survivors often feel betrayed by a system that fails to protect them or acknowledge their trauma. This "betrayal trauma" can magnify the psychological impact of the assault itself. Without MST recognition, military and civilian healthcare systems may lack dedicated pathways or services for survivors, leaving them to navigate a confusing and inadequate support system. Survivors may feel abandoned by both military and civilian legal systems, as their experiences are often downplayed or ignored. This lack of justice can deepen feelings of despair. MST survivors often experience difficulty trusting others, straining relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. This can reduce their support networks, which are critical in preventing suicide. MST survivors may leave military service prematurely due to their trauma, leading to financial instability and a loss of purpose and identity, further increasing vulnerability to suicidal behaviour. When other forms of trauma, such as combat-related PTSD, are acknowledged and addressed while MST is not, survivors may internalise the idea that their suffering is less valid or deserving of care. Formal recognition could enable early identification of at-risk individuals and facilitate interventions. Its absence leaves gaps in care, exacerbating long-term risks.

In the UK, screening for Military Sexual Trauma (MST) when veterans access medical welfare services simply does not happen. Screening questions are crucial because it acknowledges and addresses a prevalent but hidden issue that significantly impacts veterans' mental and physical health years after military service. In America, the use of two specific (MST) screening questions is widespread.

"While you were in the military…

· Did you receive uninvited and unwanted sexual attention, such as touching, cornering, pressure for sexual favours, or verbal remarks?"

· Did someone ever use force or threat of force? to have sexual contact with you against your will?"

MST is a common experience among veterans, affecting both men and women. and sadly, many individuals do not voluntarily disclose these experiences unless directly asked in a sensitive, structured, and non-judgmental way. MST is associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes, including; PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and suicidal ideation. Survivors often experience chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, and sexual health issues. All of the above lead to difficulties in relationships and social isolation. Early identification of MST can lead to timely interventions, improving the veteran's and their family’s quality of life. The phrasing of these questions reflects a trauma-informed approach as the questions do not presume the experience, reducing stigma and feelings of judgment. They clearly outline the behaviours being asked about, allowing veterans to accurately identify and disclose their experiences.

MST survivors should be entitled to specialised care and support, regardless of whether the event was reported or not. Identifying MST ensures veterans are connected to these tailored services, including therapy, counselling, and medical care. In the UK, many veterans may not recognise their experiences as MST or they may minimise them. These structured questions create an opportunity for disclosure in a supportive environment, which might not happen otherwise. By addressing MST, medical welfare services can provide a comprehensive care plan that considers the veteran’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. The questions should be asked during initial intake processes or routine assessments by trained professionals in a private, safe, and empathetic setting. Responses should be handled with confidentiality and sensitivity, ensuring veterans feel supported and understood. This approach not only validates the veteran’s experiences but also paves the way for healing and recovery.

Recognising MST as a legitimate and distinct form of trauma is a critical step toward addressing these issues and mitigating the risks of suicidal behaviour among survivors. Forward Assist are campaigning for;

Official Acknowledgment :

· Introduce MST as a recognised condition within the military and healthcare systems.

· Provide specific training for healthcare providers and military personnel to recognise and address MST-related issues for men and women.

· Screen for Military Sexual Trauma.

· Establish specialised mental health and counselling services tailored to the needs of male and female MST survivors.

· Implement peer-support programs to reduce isolation and stigma.

· Strengthen mechanisms to investigate and prosecute sexual offenses via the civilian judicial system.

· Ensure fair and survivor-centric processes are introduced to rebuild trust in the system.

· Incorporate MST survivors into existing suicide prevention programmes.

· Provide immediate and accessible victim focussed crisis intervention resources.

· The lack of MST recognition is not merely a bureaucratic oversight-it is a systemic failure that perpetuates trauma, hinders recovery, and endangers lives. Addressing this gap is essential to ensuring the mental health and well-being of military personnel and veterans.

Forward Assist MST Research:

A War on Two Fronts 2024

https://www.forward-assist.com/a-war-on-two-fronts

Seen but Not Heard 2022

https://www.forward-assist.com/s/BAME-TW-F-29.pdf

Exit Wounds 2022

https://www.forward-assist.com/s/Exit-Wounds-LGBT-TW-6.pdf

El Hombre Invisible 2021

https://www.forward-assist.com/male-military-sexual-trauma-research

No Man’s Land 2 2022

https://www.forward-assist.com/s/No-Mans-Land-2-PDF.pdf

No Man’s Land 2019