A new prevention programme aimed at addressing sexual harassment and harmful behaviour within the Armed Forces is being introduced at military bases in North Yorkshire and Plymouth, with plans to expand nationwide.
The initiative accompanies the publication of the first tri-Service sexual harassment survey, commissioned earlier this year to build a clear picture of personnel’s experiences and shape future policy. The survey forms part of a wider government aim to halve violence against women and girls within a decade.
The Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce will lead the work, focusing initially on young recruits. Training will cover consent, misogyny, online radicalisation, and behavioural standards, with specialist staff being recruited to deliver the programme. Interventions will begin at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate and HMS Raleigh before expanding to military personnel in Cyprus and RAF Halton in 2026.
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said the programme is intended to “fully confront and address the root causes” of unacceptable behaviour, adding that those who serve “must be able to do so with dignity and respect”.
The initiative forms part of the Raising Our Standards programme, which aims to drive cultural change across Defence. It follows recent structural reforms, including the creation of an independent Armed Forces Commissioner and the development of a tri-Service complaints system to handle the most serious cases outside the chain of command.
Support for victims remains a key part of the reforms, with continued investment in the Victim Witness Care Unit.
