Overcoming Reputational Damage to the UK Armed Forces by Acknowledging Military Sexual Trauma and Its Potential Link to Veteran Suicide

The reputation of the UK Armed Forces is built on a foundation of honour, courage, and integrity. However, like any institution, it is not immune to issues within its ranks. One such issue that has received increasing attention by Forward Assist is military sexual trauma (MST), which encompasses sexual harassment, assault, and abuse within the military. Acknowledging MST and its potential link to veteran suicide is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for restoring trust and reputation. In this blog I hope to explore the importance of acknowledging MST, the potential consequences of not addressing it, and how doing so can help mitigate the risk of veteran suicide. Military sexual trauma is a deeply troubling and pervasive issue that has long been shrouded in silence. Victims/survivors of MST often suffer in silence, fearing retaliation, stigma, or harm to their military careers. This culture of silence has allowed MST to persist, causing immeasurable harm to survivors and undermining the reputation of the UK Armed Forces Sadly, the current recruitment campaign mantra of the British Army which is ‘You Belong Here’ and the UK Office for Veterans Affairs promise to all veterans that they are going to make the UK the best place in the world to be a veteran. For UK MST survivors the rhetoric does not match the reality. The failure to acknowledge and address MST has severe consequences. Survivors of MST may experience a range of physical and psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. These issues can persist long after their military service has ended, affecting their overall well-being and ability to reintegrate into civilian life. The reputation of the UK Armed Forces is closely tied to the public's perception of its integrity and commitment to the well-being of its personnel. When instances of MST are not acknowledged or addressed, it erodes trust in the institution and raises questions about its commitment to the safety and dignity of its members. This reputational damage can have far-reaching consequences for recruitment, retention, and public support.

While not all survivors of MST will experience suicidal ideation or self harming behaviours, research suggests a significant correlation between MST and an increased risk of suicide among veterans. The feelings of shame, guilt, and helplessness that often accompany MST can contribute to suicidal thoughts and actions. By acknowledging the link between MST and veteran suicide, the UK Armed Forces and Office for Veterans Affairs could take proactive steps to support at-risk individuals. Acknowledging MST sends a clear message to survivors that their experiences are valid and that the institution takes their well-being seriously. This can help break down the stigma surrounding MST, encouraging survivors to seek the help and support they need. It also demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability, which can help restore public trust. Addressing MST is not only a matter of reputation but also a matter of life and death. By acknowledging the potential link to veteran suicide, the UK Armed Forces can implement targeted mental health support programs for survivors, as well as training for personnel to recognise and respond to signs of distress in their comrades. Early intervention and support can save lives.

The UK Armed Forces and the Office for Veterans affairs must develop and implement comprehensive policies and procedures for addressing MST. These should include clear reporting mechanisms, survivor support services, and preventive measures such as education and training to prevent harassment and abuse. Investing in mental health services tailored to the unique needs of MST survivors such as Forward assist and Salute Her UK is essential. These services should be readily accessible and destigmatized, encouraging survivors to seek help without fear of repercussions. Raising awareness about MST and its potential link to veteran suicide is crucial. This can be achieved through public campaigns, training programs for military personnel, and collaboration with external organisations specialising in MST and mental health support. To prevent MST and its consequences, a culture of accountability must be fostered within the UK Armed Forces and the Office for Veterans Affairs. This includes holding perpetrators of MST accountable for their actions and ensuring that preventive measures are effectively enforced.

Acknowledging military sexual trauma and its potential link to veteran suicide is not an indictment of the UK Armed Forces or the Office for Veterans Affairs but a recognition of the institutions commitment to the well-being of its personnel. Failing to address MST not only perpetuates suffering among survivors, but it also damages the reputation of the military and the Office for Veterans Affairs, which in turn, undermines both organisations mission. By taking proactive steps to acknowledge, prevent, and support survivors of MST, the UK Armed Forces and OVA can protect its reputation, restore public trust, and, most importantly, save lives. It is a moral and strategic imperative that cannot be ignored any longer.

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist