Military Sexual Trauma Survivors from Intersectional Groups Are Disadvantaged When Seeking Support.

Intersectional groups serving in the UK Armed Forces, such as women, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) personnel, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities face systemic disadvantages when seeking victim support and specialist sexual trauma therapy. Military Sexual Trauma (MST) encompasses experiences of sexual harassment and assault during military service. While MST can affect any service member, those belonging to intersectional groups often face compounded challenges due to overlapping identities and systemic inequalities.Women constitute a minority in the UK military, making up approximately 11% of personnel. Studies indicate that around 1 in 3 women veterans report experiencing MST, with higher rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression compared to their male counterparts. BAME service members often face unique challenges, including racism, cultural stigmas, and language barriers, which can hinder access to support services. These factors contribute to underreporting and inadequate care for sexual trauma. LGBTQ+ personnel are at increased risk of sexual violence and often encounter discrimination within the military. Fear of being outed, lack of inclusive services, and previous policies like the "Gay Ban" have historically marginalised these individuals. The hierarchical structure and hypermasculine culture of the military can discourage reporting of sexual misconduct. Victims often fear retaliation, damage to their careers, or being ostracised by peers. Many survivors experience institutional betrayal when their reports are mishandled or dismissed. This can lead to a loss of trust in the system and exacerbate trauma. Some victims are misdiagnosed with personality disorders, leading to medical discharge and loss of benefits. This not only stigmatises survivors but also denies them access to necessary support. Support services often lack cultural competence, making it difficult for BAME and LGBTQ+ individuals to receive appropriate care. This includes a lack of understanding of specific cultural or identity-related needs. There is a scarcity of specialised sexual trauma therapies tailored to the unique experiences of intersectional groups. This gap in services can hinder recovery and reintegration into civilian life . Organisations like Forward Assist provide specialised support for survivors of MST, offering trauma-informed therapy and advocacy for systemic change. In summary, intersectional groups in the UK Armed Forces face systemic disadvantages in accessing victim support and specialised sexual trauma therapy. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive policy reforms, increased cultural competency, and the expansion of inclusive support services.

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist