Armed Forces Military Abuse
If you have experienced abuse during military service, in military schools, or while working for the Ministry of Defence (MOD), whether in the UK or overseas, we’re here to help.
Abusive, harassing or sexually violent behaviour is never acceptable in any workplace or institution, including the Armed Forces. No one should feel they must tolerate such behaviour because of rank or command culture. Everyone working in, training with, or connected to the military is entitled to respect and a safe working environment, regardless of their position in the chain of command.
If you have experienced abuse during military service, in military schools, or while working for the Ministry of Defence (MOD), whether in the UK or overseas, we’re here to help.
We understand the unique challenges faced by survivors of sexual abuse or assault perpetrated by members of the Armed Forces and are committed to seeking justice and accountability on their behalf.
Our experienced legal teams specialise in handling sensitive cases, ensuring that every client receives compassionate and expert support throughout the legal process.
Can I claim for abuse in the armed forces?
If you’re unsure whether what you’ve experienced amounts to a legal claim, we can talk it through with you in a confidential and supportive way.
You may have a claim if you have experienced:
- Sexual assault, harassment, or other unwanted sexual behaviour
- Abuse of power by someone senior to you
- Physical violence or threats of harm
- Bullying, intimidation, or being singled out unfairly
- A working environment that felt hostile, unsafe, or unsupportive
Get in touch
Service Justice System reform and victim protection
Sarah Gibbons examines the Armed Forces Bill and how it reforms Service Justice System powers, victim protections and jurisdictional guidance amid ongoing structural concerns.
Lawyers investigating claims of sexual abuse during British army medicals
Leigh Day is investigating the potential for legal claims after women have alleged they were sexually abused during medical examinations carried out as part of the UK Army recruitment process over several decades.
The British Armed Forces need a culture change towards women
International team lawyer Melanie Jacques says a radical change in attitudes towards women is needed in the British military, at home and overseas.
Our legal teams have many years’ experience in bringing claims against the MOD for harm caused both domestically and overseas.
Negligence claims again the MOD
Sapna Malik has experience in bringing complex negligence claims against the MOD, including in relation to the duty of care to provide adequate equipment to service personnel engaged in military operations and protect them from friendly fire incidents. For example, in March 2003, a British Challenger II tank was mistakenly attacked by a fellow British tank, killing two soldiers and seriously injuring two others. Leigh Day represented the family of Corporal Stephen Allbutt, who died in the incident, as well as Daniel Twiddy and Andrew Julien, who were seriously injured. The claim against the Ministry of Defence was that it had been negligent because it failed to adequately train and equip them and/or their tanks with technology that could have prevented the injuries and death.
Gender and sexual violence claims
In addition, Leigh Day has significant experience representing survivors of sexual abuse in the workplace and other institutional settings. Sapna Malik and Melanie Jacques are experts in group litigation and representing individuals around the world who have been subject to gender-based violence and sexual abuse.
Institutional abuse claims
Alison Millar and Andrew Lord represent child and adult survivors of abuse. Alison has brought claims on behalf of those subjected to inappropriate intimate examinations during workplace medicals, and Andrew has investigated cases linked to alleged abuse of children in UK overseas schools.
We’re currently supporting survivors in cases such as:
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Sexual assault and harassment of MOD personnel while deployed overseas.
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Reports of a toxic culture and systemic issues of abuse and harassment within the military.
These legal claims and investigations point to systemic cultural issues that are supported by the MOD’s own reporting. In November 2025, the MOD published its Armed Forces Sexualised Behaviours Survey 2025 and the results suggest a pervasive culture of sexism and misogyny within the British Armed Forces. The findings highlight the urgent need for change and reinforce the importance of supporting survivors seeking justice.
If you have been affected, sharing your experience could help you seek justice and contribute to improving conditions for others. We understand how difficult it can be to speak out, and we are here to provide confidential advice and guidance.
Meet the team
Alison Millar
Partner
Alison Millar works in the human rights department at Leigh Day, where she is the head of abuse claims.
What our clients say
FAQs
Yes, you can. While the MOD has its own internal processes, including in some instances, the need to make a Service Complaint, you are not limited to relying on these processes alone. External legal support from an armed forces abuse lawyer ensures an independent and impartial approach to your case, free from potential conflicts of interest.
We offer comprehensive legal services, including advice, representation, and support in pursuing claims for compensation and accountability. Our team of military abuse lawyers has extensive experience in handling abuse cases within institutional settings such as the Armed Forces (British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force), ensuring you receive expert guidance tailored to your situation.
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Childhood sexual abuse in military schools
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Bullying, harassment and sexual assault during recruitment and basic training
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Bullying, harassment and sexual harassment and gender-based violence during overseas deployment
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Assault during medical examinations
Your career should not be negatively impacted by seeking justice. We understand the concerns about potential repercussions and will help to protect your rights and anonymity throughout the process as far as possible.
If multiple individuals are affected, we can explore group claims or collective legal actions. This approach can strengthen the case and provide a unified voice for survivors.
Abuse that occurred overseas is still subject to legal scrutiny. Our military abuse team has experience in handling cases involving MOD personnel stationed abroad and will guide you through the complexities of international claims.
Yes. Any person who suffers harm in a military setting may be able to bring a claim for compensation against the MOD in relation to allegations of bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual harassment and/or sexual assault. This can include civilian employees of the MOD, Service Personnel, as well as other individuals in military environments, such as children in military schools or individuals harmed during recruitment or training.
There are time limits for bringing civil claims related to personal injuries, including sexual abuse. These will depend on a number of factors, including where the abuse took place and the law governing the claims. In English law, the limitation period is usually three years from the date of the incident.
Whilst the court may allow claims to proceed beyond the limitation period in certain circumstances, we strongly recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible.
If you have submitted a formal Service Complaint about your mistreatment and are contemplating a legal claim, you do not need to wait for the outcome of your Complaint to contact us, as the clock does not stop with the commencement of the Service Complaint process.
A limitation period exists for bringing civil claims related to personal injuries, including sexual abuse. However, the court may allow claims to proceed beyond this limitation period in certain circumstances.
We have brought civil legal action outside of the primary limitation period of three years, in situations where the court has considered it just and equitable for the case to proceed.
Still need help?
If your question isn't answered here, our team can provide guidance.
Contact us
Get in touch with a member from our team to find out how we can help.
Email Melanie Jacques at MJacques@leighday.co.uk or Andrew Lord at ALord@leighday.co.uk or call 020 7650 1200.
Our team is committed to providing you with the support, information, and guidance you need as you navigate this journey.
If you are struggling with your mental health, it is important that you speak to your GP or other healthcare professional. You can also contact any of the relevant organisations below, who may be able to provide you with the information or support which you require.
Organisations
We want to remind you that you are not alone, and help is available.