The Fight for Recognition: How Forward Assist’s Campaign to Acknowledge Military Sexual Trauma Will Save Lives

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we kickstated January 2025 by delivering an information and awareness ‘Drop In‘ at the House of Commons as guests of our constituency MP Emma Foody. We were delighted with the interest as over twenty five, cross party MP’s called in to hear what we had to say and ask how best to support our campaign. Interestingly, many had a constituent who had lived experience of Military Sexual Trauma so their understanding of the lack of services for MST survivors was very much at the forefront of their minds.

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is a devastating reality for many serving personnel and veterans, yet the term remains unrecognised by the UK Government. Forward Assist, a leading veterans' support charity, is actively campaigning for the official recognition of MST to ensure that survivors receive the appropriate care, support, and justice. The absence of a dedicated pathway to sexual trauma-informed care exacerbates the psychological distress experienced by survivors, increasing the risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation. Recognition of MST is not just a bureaucratic formality; it is a critical step towards safeguarding lives.

MST refers to any form of sexual assault or harassment experienced during military service. The trauma inflicted by these experiences is profound, often leading to long-term mental health issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Despite its prevalence, MST is not officially recognised by the UK Government, leaving survivors without a dedicated framework for support and treatment. The lack of recognition exacerbates the sense of isolation, shame, and betrayal that many victims feel, preventing them from seeking the help they need.

Survivors of MST face significant psychological challenges, many of which stem from the stigma and lack of institutional support. Our research studies have shown that sexual trauma increases the risk of self-harming behaviours and suicidal ideation, particularly when survivors feel unheard or unsupported. Without acknowledgment of their trauma, veterans and service members may struggle to access mental health services, leading to worsening symptoms and an increased likelihood of self-destructive behaviours.

MST survivors often develop maladaptive coping mechanisms, including self-harm, substance abuse, and social withdrawal. These behaviors stem from a profound sense of powerlessness and unprocessed trauma. Without official recognition, MST survivors are left to navigate their recovery alone, increasing the risk of severe mental health deterioration and suicide.

Forward Assist’s campaign aims to bridge the gap between MST survivors and the services they need. By lobbying the UK Government to formally recognise MST, the organisation seeks to create dedicated pathways to trauma-informed care, ensuring that survivors no longer fall through the cracks. Recognition would facilitate:

  1. Improved Access to Specialist Mental Health Services: Official recognition would mandate the provision of specialist services tailored to the unique needs of MST survivors, including trauma-focused therapy and crisis intervention.

  2. Validation and Acknowledgment: Many MST survivors struggle with self-doubt, often questioning the legitimacy of their trauma due to institutional dismissal. Recognition would validate their experiences and reinforce the importance of seeking help.

  3. Legal and Institutional Reforms: Acknowledging MST would drive policy changes within the Armed Forces and veteran support systems, ensuring that reporting mechanisms, investigations, and prosecutions are handled with the sensitivity and seriousness they deserve.

  4. Increased Awareness and Training: Service providers, including healthcare professionals and military officials, would receive specialized training on the complexities of MST, leading to more compassionate and effective support for survivors.

Currently, there is no dedicated support system for MST survivors in the UK. While general mental health services exist, they often lack the expertise to deal with the unique challenges associated with military sexual trauma. The absence of a dedicated pathway means survivors face long waiting times, misdiagnosis, or inadequate care, compounding their distress. Forward Assist’s campaign aims to fill this gap by advocating for trauma-informed approaches within the NHS, veteran charities, and military institutions. These approaches include:

  • Specialist MST Treatment Programs: Similar to the USA’s VA MST programs, the UK needs dedicated clinics where survivors can receive comprehensive care from professionals trained in sexual trauma.

  • Peer Support Networks: Survivors benefit from connecting with others who have shared experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of community.

  • Tailored Family Support: Families of MST survivors also require guidance on how to support their loved ones effectively, helping to create a stronger support system.

The recognition of Military Sexual Trauma by the UK Government is a necessary step towards safeguarding the lives of survivors. Without official acknowledgment and dedicated pathways to care, MST survivors continue to suffer in silence, facing an increased risk of self-harm and suicide. Forward Assist’s campaign is not just about terminology; it is about justice, validation, and life-saving intervention. By supporting this campaign, we can ensure that no survivor is left behind, and that those who have served their country receive the care and recognition they deserve.

Tony Wright Forward Assist CEO