Exclusive: Healey commends women stepping forward in Army sexual abuse investigation

Defence Secretary John Healey has described allegations of sexual abuse faced by recruits in the UK military as "shocking" and pledged that those coming forward will have the support they need to share their stories.

Mr Healey spoke exclusively to BFBS Forces News amid an ongoing national investigation being headed up by Wiltshire police. 

"I really want to commend and encourage those who are willing to step forward," he said. "That takes courage, and they will have the support they need in doing so."

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Hundreds of women who served in the British Army have come forward and claimed they were sexually abused while undergoing medical examinations during recruitment.

Police say the alleged abuse took place at several Army locations in the UK between the 1970s and 2016.

Lieutenant General David Eastman, Deputy Chief of the General Staff, said in a statement: "We are alarmed to learn that for some of our people, their first experiences of military life may have seen them subjected to such unacceptable behaviours."

Mr Healey outlined what he is doing to aid the investigation and convince women that the UK Armed Forces is a place for them.

"I'm making sure the MOD is giving every help necessary to the investigations the Wiltshire Police are now undertaking," he said.

"We have absolutely no tolerance for sexual abuse and harassment, and we will expect and insist on the very highest standards so that women can join, serve and get promoted with confidence in the future in our Armed Forces."

Wiltshire Police are calling on anyone who may have experienced criminal, inappropriate or unusual behaviour during Army enlistment medical exams, no matter where in the UK, to contact them.

Detective Superintendent Darren Hannant, senior investigating officer, said: "If you hold any information that you think could help, please get in touch – you will be believed and treated with the utmost sensitivity and respect."

The police force can be contacted here.

Victims and survivors of sexual assault can access information and support via this page on Wiltshire Police's website, via the Government's site here and by visiting www.whenyouareready.co.uk.

If you or someone you know needs support at this time, find help available on our website.