Forward Assist Launch Specialist Women Combat Veterans Support Service

Women combat veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan carry stories that rarely make headlines, rarely shape policy debates, and rarely receive the recognition or tailored support they deserve. In the United Kingdom, female combat veterans make up a small but growing community whose needs differ in important ways from those of their male peers. Yet many remain isolated, unsupported, and misunderstood. Their experiences do not fit the traditional narrative of the “British soldier,” and because so many veterans’ organisations, public attitudes, and historical assumptions continue to be male-centric, women who served often feel invisible. The result is a cohort of veterans suffering in silence, with un-met needs that remain largely unacknowledged. Forward Assist’s Women Combat Veterans Service is led by Sarah Bushbye MC who knows better than most, how women combat veterans may need specialist support when they leave military service. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-11717615

Despite their participation in front-line roles, sometimes officially, sometimes unofficially, UK women who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan frequently have their service minimised. Many report that even when their job titles placed them outside the technical definition of infantry, they were exposed to the same threats: indirect fire, IED blasts, small-arms engagements, patrols into hostile areas, attached roles with combat units, emergency medical care under fire. Yet conversations about combat trauma still tend to assume a male context. A woman describing her combat experiences may be met with surprise or quiet scepticism, as though her account disrupts expected norms. This minimisation erodes confidence and compounds the sense of being “less legitimate” as veterans, making it significantly harder to seek help.

Women also encounter unique forms of ostracism. Within some regiments and units during the Iraq and Afghanistan era, military culture was slow to adjust to increasing female participation in operational roles. Many women learned to downplay their gender, to “fit in” by minimising any struggles, and to suppress emotions for fear of being seen as weak or unprofessional. After service, however, this same stoicism becomes a barrier to support. The instinct to stay silent persists, reinforced by a civilian world that often fails to recognise female veterans at all. Many women describe being assumed to be a spouse rather than a service member, or being met with surprise when they mention their deployment history. This misidentification, subtle but constant, reinforces the message that their service is somehow unusual, tangential, or less valued.

Military charities and associations, although deeply committed to supporting veterans, continue to reflect traditions built around male service. Social spaces, support groups, and outreach programmes were historically shaped by the needs and expectations of men, and many women report feeling out of place within them. Conversations often revolve around male camaraderie, male bonding rituals, or shared experiences that exclude or marginalise women’s perspectives. When women do attend events or access services, they may find that their needs are not recognised or that their experiences, such as gender-based harassment, sexual trauma, discrimination, or isolation during deployment, are not openly discussed. This lack of safe and understanding spaces leads many to withdraw, leaving them without access to the peer support that often acts as a lifeline for male veterans.

Mental health needs, in particular, remain poorly addressed. While PTSD and combat trauma affect men and women alike, women frequently experience these conditions in the context of additional, gender-specific stressors: moral injury linked to caregiving roles within units, harassment or assault while deployed, the strain of being one of very few women on a tour, or the pressure to outperform expectations simply to be considered equal. Many female veterans also return to civilian lives where they are primary caregivers, juggling trauma with childcare, employment instability, and social expectations that do not account for military experience. Yet mental-health services seldom incorporate these gendered dimensions. Screening processes may focus on traditionally male indicators of trauma; support groups may be dominated by men; and therapists may lack training in the intersection of gender and combat stress. The result is that many women feel misunderstood or dismissed, and they disengage before receiving meaningful help.

A crucial but overlooked dimension of this silence is the social expectation placed on women to recover quietly. Male veterans who show signs of trauma are often met with empathy and cultural scripts that recognise their suffering as an understandable consequence of war. Women, however, can experience a double bind. They face the stigma attached to mental-health struggles, but also the implicit questioning of their service to begin with. If others doubt that they were truly exposed to combat, their trauma may be trivialised or misinterpreted. This can lead to a cruel cycle where women internalise the idea that they “shouldn’t” be struggling, because their contributions have been socially minimised. Shame grows in the silence, and support remains out of reach.

This invisibility extends beyond mental health. Women veterans may face un-met physical health needs as well. Injuries sustained in combat or on deployment can present differently for women. Musculoskeletal issues may be exacerbated by poorly fitted kit, protective equipment designed for male bodies, or repeated strain in roles where they were expected to carry the same loads without allowances for physiological differences. Reproductive health concerns, including conditions triggered or worsened by deployment stress, are rarely addressed in traditional veterans’ services. Many women simply do not disclose these problems, believing they will not be understood or taken seriously.

Economic and social transitions after service also differ. Some women leave the military abruptly due to pregnancy, harassment, or lack of advancement. Others return to civilian life without the informal networks that benefit many male veterans. Employment programmes can be oriented toward industries where men predominate, and the assumption that all veterans share similar backgrounds or interests often sidelines women’s experiences. The absence of visible female role models in veteran communities makes the path forward feel more isolated.

There is also the broader issue of recognition and honour. Public remembrance, media narratives, and cultural depictions of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars overwhelmingly centre on men. Women who served in those conflicts are rarely interviewed, photographed, or invited to speak. This lack of representation sends a quiet but powerful message: their sacrifices were peripheral. Many women internalise this message, believing their stories are not worth telling. Silence becomes the default.

What unites these experiences is not a single dramatic cause, but a persistent pattern: women combat veterans do not feel acknowledged. Their service is minimised, their needs are overlooked, and the structures meant to support veterans are not designed with them in mind. The consequences ripple across their lives, psychologically, physically, socially, and economically.

Recognising these un-met needs begins with listening. It requires an honest reckoning with the ways in which military culture, veteran organisations, and public narratives continue to assume a male default. It requires mental-health professionals trained to understand gendered trauma, charities that build women-specific programming, policymakers who gather accurate data on female veterans, and a public willing to expand its understanding of who serves and who suffers after war. Most of all, it requires giving women the space, and the encouragement, to speak, and to be heard without surprise or scepticism.

The women who deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan carried the same weight of war as their male peers, often under conditions of deeper isolation. Their silence is not a sign of absence, but a sign of neglect. Until their un-met needs are acknowledged and addressed, the United Kingdom’s veteran community will remain incomplete, and the cost of war will continue to fall unfairly on those who served with courage but returned to a society unprepared to recognise them.

The Last Word...Recovery Is Not a Marketing Strategy: Protecting Veterans from Organisational Exploitation

Organisations that support veterans in recovery from addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges often operate with important missions and compassionate intentions. They work to alleviate suffering, rebuild lives and remind the wider public that behind every uniform is a human being who may carry invisible scars long after service ends. However, as noble as these intentions may be, a dangerous practice has become increasingly common: using veterans who are still in recovery as public faces, promotional tools or symbolic success stories for charitable campaigns and fundraising efforts. Although this strategy might appear effective on the surface, it exposes vulnerable individuals to emotional pressure, public scrutiny and psychological risks that can jeopardise their fragile healing process. The cost of relapse, shame or emotional collapse can be devastating, and the responsibility for these outcomes lies squarely with organisations that place their own promotional needs ahead of the long-term well-being of the people they claim to protect.

The recovery process, whether from SUDs, trauma, or a combination of both, is delicate and non-linear. Veterans returning from environments shaped by war, service-related injury, moral injury or loss often carry profound emotional burdens. When substance use becomes a coping mechanism, the journey toward sobriety is even more complicated. Recovery requires stability, safety and a sense of personal agency. When recovering veterans are brought into the public eye to promote an organisation, talk about their trauma or present themselves as examples of success, the process of recovery becomes entangled with performance. Instead of healing privately and at their own pace, they are subtly encouraged to embody a narrative of triumph, resilience and progress long before it may actually be true. This shift turns their personal healing into a public display, which can distort their sense of identity and put them at risk of relapse when the pressure becomes too heavy.

In many cases, organisations do not intend to exploit these individuals maliciously. They may genuinely believe that showcasing a recovering veteran will inspire donors, highlight the importance of their work and help reduce stigma around addiction. But the unintended result is that the veteran’s recovery becomes instrumentalised, treated as a tool rather than a deeply personal, vulnerable and ongoing process. The pressure to maintain the image of a “success story” can be suffocating, especially for someone who may already feel undeserving, ashamed or fearful of slipping backward. When a recovering individual is publicly celebrated, they are also publicly exposed. Any sign of struggle becomes not a private battle but a perceived failure in the eyes of the supporters who were encouraged to see them as an emblem of improvement.

For a veteran who has spent years operating under the rigid structures of institutional life, including military discipline, the added pressure to perform recovery in a specific way can trigger familiar patterns of perfectionism and suppression. Many veterans already struggle with guilt, moral injury or shame related to their experiences in service. When an organisation elevates them into the spotlight, these unhealed wounds may deepen as they feel compelled to live up to expectations that do not align with the slow and uneven nature of real healing. They may smile on stage while feeling broken inside. They may repeat a story that still haunts them. They may downplay their ongoing struggles because the organisation celebrates them as someone who has already overcome the worst. The demand to appear “better” than they truly feel can become a heavy emotional burden.

One of the greatest dangers in using recovering veterans for promotional purposes is the increased risk of relapse. Addiction thrives in conditions of stress, shame and emotional overload, all of which are amplified by public exposure. Even when a veteran wholeheartedly wants to help an organisation, the act of publicly recounting past traumas, discussing periods of addiction or facing crowds can trigger intense psychological distress. These triggers can activate cravings or emotional spirals that undermine the progress they have struggled so hard to achieve. The recovery process is highly susceptible to disruption, and the very act of being used as a spokesperson can inadvertently destabilise the veteran’s recovery foundation. What appears to the audience as a brave testimony may feel to the speaker like an emotionally destabilising ordeal that reopens wounds they were not ready to revisit.

The shame associated with relapse can be catastrophic, especially when the individual has been held up as a symbol of success. Shame is one of the most corrosive emotional states for someone in recovery. It feeds secrecy, isolation and self-destruction. If a veteran who has been publicly featured by an organisation later relapses, the fallout can be devastating. They may feel that they have let down not only themselves but the organisation, the public and even other veterans who looked to them for inspiration. Instead of reaching out for help, they may withdraw out of fear of disappointing those who have celebrated them. This isolation can deepen their despair and drive them into further substance use as a way to numb the emotional pain. The consequences can escalate quickly when shame replaces support, and the person internalises the idea that they are a failure because their recovery did not fit the tidy narrative others demanded.

The potential for tragedy becomes especially alarming when considering the intersection of relapse, shame and suicide risk. Veterans are already statistically more vulnerable to suicide due to the cumulative effects of trauma, identity loss after service, social isolation and untreated mental health conditions. When a recovering veteran is placed in a public role that amplifies pressure and suppresses their true emotional state, the risk of suicidal thoughts can increase. Feeling trapped between the expectations placed on them and their internal struggles, they may interpret relapse as proof they are beyond help. In some cases, this crushing weight leads individuals to contemplate or attempt self-harm. The organisation may continue promoting its work while being unaware of the internal crisis unfolding in the very person they put forward as a success story. The cost of such oversight is immeasurable.

Beyond suicide risk, relapse for someone recovering from substance addiction can also have fatal physical consequences. The risk of overdose is particularly high after a period of sobriety because the body’s tolerance decreases. A single lapse can result in an unintentional overdose that becomes deadly before help can intervene. When a recovering veteran relapses due to the emotional strain of being used for organisational promotion, the stakes are not only psychological but life-threatening. An overdose that results from such pressure is not just a personal tragedy but a systemic failure by an organisation that overlooked the veteran’s fragile state in favour of public recognition. The same applies to the risk of drug-related medical crises, accidental poisoning or alcohol-related harm. A relapse does not need to be long-term to be dangerous; a single overwhelmed moment can cause irreversible consequences.

Another subtle but damaging outcome of this practice is the sense of exclusion it creates when the veteran’s struggles no longer align with the organisation’s expectations. Many organisations highlight recovering veterans during promotional campaigns as long as they embody a narrative of improvement, gratitude and progress. But if that veteran begins to struggle again, their story becomes less convenient. They may be quietly dropped from marketing materials or no longer invited to speak. This unspoken rejection reinforces the painful belief that they only have value when they are doing well, smiling publicly and living up to the heroic image imposed upon them. Once they no longer serve that purpose, they may feel discarded, unseen and unworthy of continued support. For someone already grappling with trauma and addiction, this betrayal can intensify feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.

This pattern of conditional inclusion reveals a deeper ethical issue: the organisation’s priority becomes its own image rather than the holistic well-being of the veteran. When organisations display recovering addicts as proof of their effectiveness, they risk treating human struggles as marketing assets. The veteran’s trauma and addiction, which should be handled with care and confidentiality, become tools for fundraising. Their recovery becomes a spectacle, performed not for their own healing but to inspire donations or praise. This dynamic strips them of autonomy and reduces their complex life story to a neatly packaged testimonial that benefits the organisation more than the individual. Such instrumentalisation of human suffering is incompatible with true support, compassion and ethical responsibility.

In many cases, veterans may agree to participate because they feel indebted to the organisation that helped them. This sense of obligation can be exploited, even unintentionally. A veteran may feel pressured to say yes when asked to speak at events or appear in promotional materials because they believe refusing would seem ungrateful. This dynamic recreates the rigid expectations of military life, where refusing a request is unthinkable. But recovery requires the cultivation of personal boundaries, autonomy and the right to say no without guilt. When organisations rely on veterans to promote their efforts, they risk undermining these essential aspects of recovery by reinforcing people-pleasing behaviour, compliance and self-sacrifice. The veteran becomes more concerned with meeting external expectations than attending to their own healing needs.

There is also the risk of emotional exploitation when organisations encourage veterans to share deeply personal or traumatic experiences publicly. The retelling of trauma in settings that are not therapeutic can cause re-traumatisation, especially when the audience is large, unfamiliar or emotionally distant. Painful memories may resurface with intensity, triggering flashbacks, panic attacks or emotional shutdowns. When trauma is commodified for public consumption, the veteran’s pain becomes entertainment or inspiration for others. This dynamic can feel dehumanising and may intensify symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Instead of processing trauma safely with trained clinicians, the veteran is encouraged to expose open wounds to strangers, which can prolong recovery or cause regression.

Even in cases where the veteran initially feels empowered to tell their story, the long-term consequences may not be fully understood. Public disclosure of addiction and trauma can limit future employment opportunities, affect personal relationships, or create a permanent public record of deeply private experiences. These long-term impacts are rarely explained to the individual before they agree to appear in promotional content. An organisation may benefit immediately from the moving testimony, but the veteran must live with the permanent exposure of their most vulnerable moments. The imbalance of power and long-term risk makes this practice ethically questionable.

Furthermore, this approach reinforces harmful stereotypes about veterans and addiction. It implies that the only stories worth telling are those with neat, uplifting arcs that conclude with gratitude toward the supporting organisation. Real recovery is not linear and does not always fit a feel-good narrative. When organisations spotlight only veterans who appear to be thriving, they contribute to unrealistic public expectations and marginalise those who are still struggling or who have relapsed. This not only harms the selected spokesperson but also creates pressure for other veterans within the organisation who may feel inferior or ashamed if their own recovery does not match the publicly celebrated version. It fosters a culture in which struggle is hidden, vulnerability is masked and authenticity is sacrificed.

In addition to the psychological risks, using recovering veterans for promotional purposes can strain their social support networks. Friends, family members and peers who witness the veteran’s public exposure may feel uncertain about how to support them. They may assume the veteran is doing better than they actually are because the organisation has presented them as a success story. This can leave the veteran without the support they need during vulnerable moments, particularly if shame prevents them from admitting they are struggling. Social support is one of the most important protective factors in recovery, and distorting the veteran’s public image can inadvertently weaken that support system.

The ethical responsibility of organisations that serve veterans extends far beyond financial survival or public perception. Their primary duty is to protect the dignity, privacy and long-term well-being of those who trust them during their most vulnerable times. When organisations prioritise fundraising or public recognition over these responsibilities, they betray the trust that is essential for effective care. A truly ethical organisation recognises that healing cannot be rushed or displayed for public consumption. It prioritises confidentiality, emotional safety and the individual’s right to recover in private without being turned into an example or a spectacle.

Instead of using recovering veterans as promotional tools, organisations should focus on empowering them to heal, grow and rebuild their lives away from the pressures of public scrutiny. They should invest in qualified staff, trauma-informed care and long-term support rather than marketing narratives. They should create environments where veterans feel safe to be honest about their struggles without worrying about disappointing donors or tarnishing the organisation’s image. They should recognise that the most meaningful successes in recovery often happen quietly, without applause, and that these quiet victories are just as valuable as the dramatic stories that attract public attention.

When organisations step back from the temptation to showcase recovery as a marketing strategy, they make room for veterans to reclaim their autonomy. Healing becomes a personal journey rather than a public performance. Relapse becomes a learning experience rather than a source of shame. Support is offered unconditionally, not based on whether the veteran continues to serve the organisation’s promotional interests. This approach not only protects vulnerable individuals but also strengthens the integrity of the organisation itself.

Ultimately, veterans in recovery deserve more than to be used as symbols of organisational success. They deserve safety, respect, privacy and genuine care. They deserve to be seen as whole human beings rather than inspirational props. When they are placed in the spotlight prematurely, they face increased risks of emotional deterioration, relapse, shame, exclusion, suicide and overdose. These risks are too great to justify any potential gain for the organisation. True service requires prioritising the well-being of the veteran above any publicity or fundraising goals. It means recognising that some stories are too delicate, too personal and too unfinished to be shared with the world. The role of a responsible organisation is not to display recovering veterans but to quietly support them as they rebuild their lives at their own pace, without pressure, expectation or exposure.

Tony Wright

Adios Amigos…

In the twilight of my career and after almost fifty years of full-time employment, I have decided that the time has come to retire. Earlier this month I stepped down from my role as CEO of Forward Assist, the charity I founded nearly thirteen years ago, transitioning the leadership of the organisation to Steve Doggett who will lead the charity into the future.
I am looking forward to embracing retirement and family life whilst honing my love for creative and artistic activities. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m deeply grateful for all the experiences, challenges, and friendships that have shaped my career. The last sixteen years working in this sector has been transformational, enjoyable, informative and extremely interesting. I am proud to have given a voice to so many marginalised and disenfranchised military veterans as the founder of About Turn CIC, (Veterans in the Criminal Justice System) Salute Her UK (Women Veteran MST Survivors) and Forward Assist whose 'lived experience' research has opened up a new landcape of policy change, advocacy, veteran support and its all been incredibly rewarding. Working alongside such dedicated Trustees, colleagues, volunteers, veterans and partners to support those who have served has been an honour and a privilege. Together, we’ve built something truly meaningful that I know will continue to grow and make a difference. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way. Your belief in our mission has been the driving force behind everything we’ve achieved. Yet there is still so much to do and I'm sure Steve and his team will continue to meet the unmet need of those without agency within the military community.
As I step back and hand over the reins, I do so with immense pride and gratitude. I look forward to watching Forward Assist thrive and will delight in seeing the positive impact they will make in the years ahead.

So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish

Tony Wright

Forward Assist Veterans Debate Project Utilised to Address Moral Injury .

Tony Wright was delighted to be invited by Durham University, International Centre on Moral Injury to present his views on the Forward Assist Veterans Debate Training and its impact on veterans struggling with Moral Injury. The presentaion was called ‘ Debating History - Healing The Present and took place on 25th September. You can read more about the project here: https://www.forward-assist.com/blog/2025/9/2/debating-history-healing-the-present-forward-assists-debating-society-and-moral-injury

Honouring the Veterans’ Foundation for Their Commitment to Veteran Wellbeing

We are delighted to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Veterans’ Foundation for their generous support in funding the salary for our Operations Manager at Forward Assist. This funding was pivotal in ensuring the continuity of our services, particularly during a transitional period as our CEO recovered from an operation and works towards his retirement.

With this support, Forward Assist are able to continue delivering vital programmes that empower veterans and their families, including:

·        Nature-Based Wellbeing Programmes: Foraging courses, mental wellbeing walks, and our allotment project help veterans reconnect with nature, develop practical skills, and improve mental health.

·        Commemorative Initiatives: Our oak women’s memorial bench honours the service and sacrifice of women in the Armed Forces, providing a space for reflection and remembrance.

·        Volunteer-Led Support: Under the leadership of Sarah Bushbye, Military Cross recipient and former Army medic, our volunteer programme is expanding, bringing leadership, mentorship, and hands-on support to our veterans.

·        Innovative and Holistic Service Delivery: We are continuing to develop wellness programmes that integrate digital tools, advocacy, and post traumatic growth ensuring that veterans receive tailored, impactful support.

This funding allows Forward Assist to maintain operational stability, deliver high-quality programmes, and continue building a resilient, sustainable organisation for the benefit of veterans. We are excited to build on this foundation, ensuring veterans can access the care, community, and opportunities they deserve.

A sincere thank you to the Veterans’ Foundation for helping make this possible. Your support is enabling real, lasting impact for the Armed Forces community. Link to The Veterans Foundation Website: https://www.veteransfoundation.org.uk/

Forward Assist: Invited To Take Part In The Boulder Crest Warrior PATHH Programme In Arizona

Forward Assist were delighted to be invited to take part in the Warrior PATHH course in Arizona during June 2025. The programme ensures participants can transform struggle to strength. Warrior PATHH is the first-ever programme designed to cultivate and facilitate post-traumatic growth (PTG). Boulder Crest’s Warrior PATHH programme is delivered at nine locations across the country and Forward Assist were invited to bring a group of six UK combat veterans on the course but due to other commitments only two of us were able to make the journey. The 90 day programme begins with seven days of in-person residential training on the sacred land of Apache Springs Ranch. Located on a 130-acre historic homestead near Sonoita in the Coronado National Forest. PATHH: Progressive and Alternative Training for Helping Heroes is grounded in Posttraumatic Growth (PTG) science, training participants to make peace with the past, live fully in the present, and envision their future. Myself and Mitch were embedded in a group of seven US Veterans and by the end of the week we had made friends with everyone on the course.The UK needs Warrior PATHH because it offers something existing systems don’t: a peer-led, growth-focused, holistic approach to trauma recovery. With increasing demand for effective support for those who serve, Warrior PATHH could be a transformational addition to the UK’s mental health landscape.

Our VE Day 80 Years Celebration 8th May 1945- 2025

Looking Forward To Celebrating VE Day in Salute Cafe on 8th May 2025. VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, marks the formal acceptance by the Allies of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender on May 8, 1945, officially ending World War II in Europe. This day was a time of immense celebration, with people taking to the streets to rejoice. However, it's important to remember that the war in the Pacific with Japan continued, and millions of people in Europe had experienced immense loss and devastation. We are delighted that Local Hero WW2 Veteran Jack Hearn will be in attendance.

Early Day Motion: Military Sexual Trauma 2025

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to to Cameron Thomas MP for submitting an Early Day Motion (EDM) after meeting with Team Forward Assist at the House of Commons in February 2025. You can read it here: https://t.co/FNKNnDisoi

"Breaking the Silence: Forward Assist CEO Tony Wright Illuminates the Hidden Link Between Military Sexual Trauma and Moral Injury at Durham University Conference"

In a deeply affecting and paradigm-shifting presentation delivered on April 8th at the prestigious Durham University International Centre for Moral Injury Conference, Tony Wright, CEO of Forward Assist, brought to light the often-overlooked intersection of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and Moral Injury, a link long felt by survivors, but rarely acknowledged in public discourse.

Before an audience of scholars, clinicians, veterans, and policymakers from all around the world, Wright, a formidable advocate for military veterans and a leading voice in trauma-informed care, dismantled the walls of silence surrounding sexual violence in military settings. With a voice both measured and resonant, he spoke not just as a CEO, but as a changemaker on a mission to confront systemic failings that compromise not only the bodies of those who serve, but their very sense of self.

“Moral injury,” Wright asserts, “is not a wound from what you did—it’s a wound from what you witnessed, what was done to you, and the betrayal by those who were meant to protect you. For survivors of Military Sexual Trauma, that betrayal is often institutional, layered, and corrosive to the soul.”

Wright’s presentation traced the psychological, ethical, and spiritual fractures that arise when individuals are violated in environments built on trust, duty, and honor. Using qualitative data from Forward Assist’s groundbreaking veteran outreach programs—many of which support women and LGBTQ+ service members—he wove together survivor testimony, clinical insight, and moral philosophy into a narrative that was as intellectually rigorous as it was emotionally potent. His talk highlighted a harrowing truth: MST is not merely a physical or emotional trauma, it constitutes a moral violation, disrupting a service member's internal compass and sense of identity. Many victims are left grappling not only with PTSD, but with debilitating shame, self-blame, and disillusionment, hallmarks of what researchers now define as moral injury. Wright didn’t simply present a problem, he ignited a call to action.

He advocated for:

• Reform in institutional responses to MST within the military hierarchy

• Expanded moral injury frameworks in clinical and academic settings to account for MST experiences

• Increased funding for survivor-led peer support programs

• Ethical accountability at all levels of command

Forward Assist has long stood at the vanguard of trauma-informed veteran care. After this presentation, it’s clear: they’re also leading the moral reckoning.

Male MST Survivors Tell Their Story In Groundbreaking Video

Forward Assist are delighted to launch their new inf0-film which gives a voice to male military sexual trauma survivors in the UK. We commissioned, Newcastle University Media Student, Jane Anderson to make the film with funding from the Armed Forces Covenant Grant Fund. The feedback from survivors and professionals has been extremely positive and gives a voice to a hidden population struggling with Moral Injury and PTSD.

You can watch the video and read the El Hombre Invisible Research Report here: https://www.forward-assist.com/male-military-sexual-trauma-research

OP-ED: A Nation’s Promise in Peril – The Betrayal of Disabled Veterans

When Rachel Reeves stood before the nation this month to announce Labour’s proposed cuts to disability benefits, she did so with the language of fiscal responsibility and economic realism. But for many of the UK’s disabled veterans, her words landed like a body blow. These cuts are more than budgetary adjustments. They are moral fractures, cracks in the social contract between a nation and those who risked everything to protect it. The Armed Forces Covenant, a pledge that veterans should never be disadvantaged by their service, is not a slogan. It is a sacred trust. A promise. But if Labour’s reforms proceed as currently proposed, disabled veterans, particularly those grappling with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, limb loss, and other life-altering conditions, may find themselves disproportionately harmed. That isn’t just an oversight. It’s a betrayal.

For those who have served, the transition to civilian life is already steep. For the disabled, it can be mountainous. Many rely on disability benefits not out of laziness or reluctance, but because their injuries, mental or physical, make it impossible to fully reintegrate without support. These aren’t faceless statistics. They are the men and women who answered their country’s call. Who stood on foreign soil in our name. Who now find themselves fighting, not an enemy abroad, but an indifferent bureaucracy at home. To threaten that support, under the banner of “efficiency” or “welfare reform”, is to say, in effect: Your sacrifice is appreciated, but inconvenient.

Beyond the physical and psychological scars veterans carry, there’s another, quieter wound: moral injury. It occurs when someone experiences a betrayal by a trusted institution, when what they believed in is violated by those in power. For a veteran who believed the country would have their back, watching policymakers erode the benefits they depend on isn’t just frustrating. It’s shattering. The psychological toll of that betrayal, particularly for those already battling depression, anxiety, or PTSD, can be immense. Some may spiral into isolation. Others into suicidal ideation.

The Armed Forces Covenant states that veterans should face “no disadvantage.” That’s not a footnote. It’s a promise enshrined into national conscience, and, in some cases, into law. Any policy that disproportionately impacts disabled veterans is a violation of that promise. Period.

If Labour truly respects the Covenant, then exemptions, safeguards, and protections must be baked into any reforms. Not as an afterthought, but as a non-negotiable starting point.

This isn’t about left or right. It’s about right and wrong.

Veterans don’t need parades or platitudes. They need policies that protect their dignity, honour their sacrifice, and support their ongoing struggle. If Labour hopes to lead with compassion and credibility, it must revisit this proposal, urgently. It must consult directly with veterans’ organisations, disability advocates, and mental health professionals. And above all, it must reaffirm, loudly and clearly, that no one who served this country will ever be punished for it. Because if we forget those who gave so much, we lose more than our moral compass, we lose who we are.

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist

Ground-breaking Report Highlights the Impact of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) & Suicidal Ideation Among UK Veterans

“A DARK SHADOW”

First-Ever UK Study Links Military Sexual Trauma to Suicidal Ideation in Veterans

New research exposes deep institutional failings and calls for urgent systemic reform to protect survivors of in-service sexual violence.

London, 19 March 2025 A Dark Shadow, a landmark report published today by veteran charities Forward Assist and Salute Her UK, reveals for the first time the devastating connection between Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and suicidal ideation in UK veterans. The report, based on in-depth interviews with 30 former service personnel, uncovers a crisis of hidden trauma, systemic neglect, and institutional betrayal that continues to endanger lives long after military service ends.

Executive Summary

• 72% of participants had been medically discharged due to psychological trauma linked to sexual assault during service.

• Nearly 1 in 5 reported attempting suicide; over 20% wished they were dead or felt their loved ones would be better off without them.

• MST survivors face a cascade of harms including PTSD, Complex PTSD, shame, moral injury, addiction, and social exclusion.

• Both men and women reported rape, harassment, and online abuse—often dismissed or mishandled by military authorities.

• Over 90% of incidents went unreported formally, often due to fear, shame, and the absence of trusted care pathways.

• Many veterans described seeking help from the NHS or military services, only to be misdiagnosed or retraumatised by institutional indifference.

“This is the first time I’ve ever spoken about what happened to me when I was a vulnerable boy soldier of 16… It’s been a dark shadow that’s affected my whole life.” – Male veteran and participant

Funded by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs in 2023, this ground-breaking action research project offers direct recommendations for trauma-informed services, veteran-specific care pathways, and recognition of MST as a major risk factor in veteran suicide prevention.

Forward Assist CEO Tony Wright says:

“This report is a rallying cry. We must stop failing survivors. Silence kills.”

MST refers to sexual harassment or sexual assault that occurs during military service, affecting both men and women. Despite the prevalence of such incidents, the UK lacks formal recognition of MST and the necessary care pathways to support survivors. This report seeks to address that gap by shedding light on the profound psychological, emotional, and physical impact of MST.

Key Findings from the Report:

• Severe Psychological Impact: Survivors experience complex trauma responses, including PTSD, depression, and suicidal ideation, with many reporting that they felt their loved ones would be better off without them.

• Institutional Betrayal: Many survivors report feeling abandoned by military institutions that were meant to protect them, exacerbating their trauma.

• Social Isolation and Alienation: Victims often experience ostracisation, leading to feelings of loneliness, guilt, and an increased risk of suicide.

• Lack of Dedicated Support: The absence of specialised care pathways leaves survivors without adequate medical, emotional, or legal assistance.

• Call for Systemic Change: The report underscores the urgent need for sexual trauma-informed screening questions, support services and greater institutional accountability.
  
  
  

Recommendations for Action

The report presents a comprehensive set of recommendations, including:

1. Confidential Reporting Mechanisms to encourage safe disclosures without fear of reprisal.

2. Integrated Care Pathways to provide specialised mental health and legal support.

3. Comprehensive Training for Mental Health Professionals to address the unique needs of MST survivors.

4. Ongoing Research and Data Collection to inform policy decisions and track MST prevalence.

5. Awareness Campaigns to dismantle stigma and encourage survivors to seek help.
   
   

A Call for Recognition and Change

Despite its prevalence, the term Military Sexual Trauma is not officially recognised by the Ministry of Defence, the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, or the NHS. This lack of recognition perpetuates stigma and hinders access to vital support services. The findings of this report emphasise the urgent need for the UK Government to acknowledge and address MST, ensuring that all veterans receive the care they deserve.

“This report is a call to action. We owe it to our veterans to create a system that supports and protects them, ensuring their service is met with respect, dignity, and care. The findings reveal not only the depth of the problem but also the clear steps we must take to address it.”

A Step Towards a Safer Future

This report serves as a catalyst for change, amplifying the voices of survivors and advocating for systemic improvements to military culture and veteran support networks. Forward Assist remain committed to championing the rights of MST survivors and ensuring they receive the recognition and care they need.

Note: "This research report was funded by the Office for Veterans' Affairs in 2023 as part of an independent research initiative. The views, findings, and conclusions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not reflect the policies or positions of the UK Government."

Game Changing Grant From Scotmid Coop

Forward Assist are delighted to have recieved a grant from Scot Mid COOP which will enable us to purchase equipment to develop a much needed hybrid conferencing suite at our opertational hub in Dudley South East Northumberland. This grant will allow us to deliver online training, host interagency conferences and deliver one to one and group support to isolated veterans across the UK all in the comfort of a dedicated work space.

Tony Wright CEO said; “This grant is a game changer as it allows us to embrace modern technology so we can provide best in class support to veterans in need anywhere in the UK without disrupting office based staffs access to desk top top computers and lap tops. I cant wait to get this project up and running. Thank you Scotmid Coop.”

Free Mindfilness of Dream & Sleep Course Available for MST Survivors

Once again we are delighted to be collaborating with Charlie Morley to deliver a one day Mindfulness of Dream and Sleep course.

Mindfulness of Dream & Sleep: for MST (Military Sexual Trauma) Affected Sleep

(Friday 7th March 2025, 10am-5pm UK time, online through ZOOM, in association with Forward Assist)

"This workshop is particularly relevant for Military veterans with lived experiences of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) due to the sleep disturbances such as nightmares, insomnia, and hypervigilance that MST can lead to. This workshop can help veterans become more aware of the relationship between their trauma and their sleep patterns, enabling them to work towards healthier sleep habits and better manage disruptions." -Tony Wright, CEO of Forward Assist Veterans Charity

‍Originally developed for British military veterans by sleep & dream specialist Charlie Morley, Mindfulness of Dream & Sleep is a holistic approach to better sleep for people affected by stress or trauma.  

This particular online workshop is aimed at men and women from around the world who are either military veterans or serving military and who are survivors of Military Sexual Trauma (MTS).

In this immersive workshop we’ll learn how to transform the harmful effects that stress and trauma can have on the third of our life that we spend asleep by regulating our nervous system through the breath and the body.

Using scientifically verified mindfulness-based techniques alongside breath & body-work practices, deep relaxation and lucid dreaming the Mindfulness of Dream & Sleep protocol helps to reduce stress before bed, integrate trauma and optimize sleep quality.  

Mindfulness of Dream & Sleep is based on a non-pathologizing approach to sleep & dreams supported by five core pillars:
‍
1. Sleep Awareness (learning how sleep works)
2. Rest & Relax (yoga nidra/ hypnagogic mindfulness)
3. Breath-Body-Mind (coherent breathing & chi gong)
4. Transforming Nightmares (befriending trauma dreams)
5. Lucid Dreaming (consciously healing your dreams)

From common work-related stress to the more serious effects of MST, this workshop will teach you effective techniques to help you sleep better and wake up healthier.

These practices are very effective. Independent analysis undertaken on behalf of the Churchill Fellowship found that 87% of participants reported significantly improved sleep quality while 77% reported significantly lowered levels of anxiety around sleep after the workshop.

The course will also explore:
• The Science of Sleep Cycles
• The Neuroscience of Trauma
• Optimising our Sleep Health
• Dream-work for Trauma Integration

NB: This is a trauma sensitive workshop offered free or charge by a civilian sleep specialist. At no point will participants be asked to talk about their MST and are free to keep their cameras off if they would rather not be on screen.

‍This course is open to all veterans & serving military from all countries but especially aimed at those who are either survivors of MST or who have been affected by trauma while serving in the military.

TO BOOK YOUR PLACE
email Charlie at dreamyoga@live.com or Tony Wright at tony@forward-assist.com

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR 
‍https://www.charliemorley.com/about-me

DATES & TIMES:
10am - 5pm UK times, Friday 7th March 2025
‍
COST

Free

QUESTIONS:
email Charlie at dreamyoga@live.com or Tony Wright at tony@forward-assist.com

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

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

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year

🎄 Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Forward Assist! 🎄

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate this special season, we want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported Forward Assist throughout the year. Your kindness and generosity have helped us continue our mission to empower veterans and make a positive impact in their lives.

This festive period, let’s cherish the spirit of togetherness, reflect on the past year, and look forward to a bright new chapter filled with hope and opportunities.

From all of us at Forward Assist, we wish you and your families a joyous Christmas and a New Year filled with peace, love, and happiness. Thank you for being part of our journey and helping us make a difference.

Here’s to 2024—standing together, moving forward.

With warmest regards,
The Forward Assist Team 🎅✨

Lifetime Achivement ‘Soldiering on Award’ For Forward Assist CEO Tony Wright

Winning any award is indeed an honour because it represents recognition, validation, and appreciation for an individual's or group's efforts, achievements, or contributions. Awards are symbolic of success, dedication, and excellence, and they hold significant meaning across personal, professional, and societal contexts. Yet, winning the Lifetime Achievement award at the 2024 Soldiering on Award, was extra speacial because this award acknowledges the hard work, perseverance, and commitment that individuals or teams invest in their craft or field. This recognition has acted as a morale booster and encourages continued dedication. Being selected for an award often means that an individual or team has met or exceeded standards of excellence in their domain. This validation really does solidify confidence in their abilities and work. Awards provide visibility and acknowledgment, enhancing the recipient's credibility and reputation. It demonstrates that their contributions are valued by peers, institutions, or the public. Winners often serve as role models, inspiring others to strive for success and excellence. Their achievements highlight the potential rewards of dedication and innovation. While winning an award is an honour, it also comes with responsibilities. Award recipients may feel the pressure to uphold their reputation or meet heightened expectations. Additionally, it’s essential for winners to remain humble and use their platform to create positive change or uplift others. In essence, winning an award is more than just receiving a trophy or certificate; it is a symbol of accomplishment, acknowledgment, and respect. It encourages continuous improvement and inspires others to achieve their goals, making it a significant and honorable milestone in any journey. https://youtu.be/Ma0jZTzoU_w

Why the UK Must Recognise Military Sexual Trauma

We know from our own research and the many conversations we have had with victims and survivors that far too many people never report sexual violence within the military due to a fear of retaliation. They are worried that speaking out could impact their career, or that they might not be believed. The term "MST" signals to survivors that their experiences are being taken seriously, providing validation and increasing trust in the system.

In making this change, the UK would be following the example of the US where the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has incorporated MST into its policies to acknowledge and address sexual assault and harassment within the military context. It would give the MoD an opportunity to craft specific policies and mental health resources that are tailored to military sexual trauma. Read my OP-ED in Open Democracy https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/military-veterans-sexual-trauma/

Shame, Men & Military Sexual Trauma

A Big Thanks to Anna Foster at BBC Radio Newcastle who invited myself and Lisa Etherson onto her show to talk about the devastating impact shame can have on male survivors of Military Sexual Trauma and how Lisa’s Shame Containment Theory could help millions of trauma survivors understand and conceptualise their shame whilst facilitating healing and recovery. https://t.co/O9eezssflb

How Men Became The Hidden Victims of Military Sexual Abuse

Between May 2015 and June 2024, five men faced 11 charges of buggery and two attempts of buggery – which was re-categorised as rape in 2003 – in court martials, with one found guilty. Offences committed before that time are still tried and sentenced according to the old law. There were 13 investigations into buggery in the same time period.

The MoD told openDemocracy that the Armed Forces take any allegation of rape or sexual assault very seriously and that complaints, including non-recent incidents, are investigated thoroughly.

Read More Here: https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/men-sexual-abuse-british-military-initiation-ceremonies/