Understanding Your Rights: Military Injury Claims for Sexual Assault and Harassment in the Armed Forces

In November 2025, the Ministry of Defence published the first-ever military-wide survey into sexualised behaviours and sexual harassment within the UK Armed Forces. The findings were stark and deeply concerning.

The survey revealed widespread experiences of inappropriate behaviour, with many personnel reporting incidents that undermine dignity, safety, and operational effectiveness.  68% of female service personnel reported sexualised behaviours towards them in the last 12 months.  These statistics are unlikely to represent the full picture as a lot of incidents go unreported.

As Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton stated in the Armed Forces Sexualised behaviours and Sexual Harassment Survey recently published by the MOD:

“The results of the survey show just how much more I, and leaders at every level, need to do to stamp out behaviour which has no place in the UK Armed Forces.”

This landmark survey marks a turning point in recognising and addressing the harm caused by sexual harassment in military environments. For those affected, understanding your legal rights and options is essential.

What Constitutes a Military Injury Claim?

Military injury claims cover a wide range of physical and psychological harm suffered during service. Sexual harassment whether verbal, physical, or psychological can result in serious emotional trauma, loss of confidence, and long-term mental health issues. These are recognised under UK law as grounds for a personal injury claim.

If you’ve experienced sexual harassment while serving, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Psychological injury (e.g. PTSD, anxiety, depression)
• Loss of earnings for loss of career and pension, or impact on career progression
• Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
• Compensation for injuries (comprising pain, suffering and loss of amenity or impact on day to day activities)

The Claims Process: What You Need to Know

At Ison Harrison, our specialist military injury solicitors offer clear, confidential guidance to help you navigate the claims process. Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Consultation. We will listen to your experience and assess whether you have grounds for a claim.
2. Evidence Gathering. This may include medical records, witness statements, and service documentation.
3. Claim Submission. We will prepare and submit your claim to the Ministry of Defence or relevant body.
4. Negotiation or Litigation. We aim to resolve claims swiftly but will pursue court action if necessary.
5. Compensation Award. If successful, you’ll receive a settlement reflecting the harm suffered.

We operate on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you won’t pay legal fees unless your claim succeeds.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

• Trusted, expert personal injury solicitors with decades of experience
• Specialist military injury team who understands the unique challenges of service life
• Lexcel-accredited for excellence in legal practice
• Empathetic, confidential service tailored to your needs

We are committed to helping veterans and serving personnel seek justice and rebuild their lives.

A Call for Change – And Support

Minister for Veterans and People, Louise Sandher-Jones MP, commented, in the cited report:

“All those who choose to serve our country must be able to do so with dignity and respect, which is why today’s survey results are wholly unacceptable.”

If you’ve been affected by sexual harassment or assault in the Armed Forces, you are not alone and you have legal rights. Seeking advice is the first step toward justice and recovery.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve experienced sexual harassment or assault of any form during military service, contact our military injury team today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll guide you through your options and help you take action. Call us on 0113 224 7837 or email [email protected].