This week we saw the dismissal of an Army chaplain who attempted to bribe a female soldier to withdraw a sexual assault complaint which once again has highlighted the challenges survivors can face in the investigation period after reporting abuse and misconduct within the military

Rev Capt Huw Ryden, of the Army Chaplaincy Department, offered a female private soldier £3,000 to withdraw an allegation of sexual assault against another soldier. He was convicted at Catterick Military Court Centre of conduct prejudicial to good order and service discipline. As a result, he was dismissed from HM Forces and ordered to complete 240 hours of unpaid community work. Judge Advocate Legard described the conduct as "inexcusable", emphasising that members of the armed forces should be able to trust their Padres to provide support and guidance.

The Service Prosecuting Authority stated that Rev Ryden had "misused his position to attempt to persuade a complainant to withdraw her complaint of sexual assault",

For many survivors of sexual assault within the military, reporting what has happened can be one of the most difficult decisions they face.

For many years, women especially, have been reluctant to report sexual abuse within the military with it being shrugged off as “banter” or that the survivor was unable to “take a joke” and be part of the team.

If we look at the horribly sad case of Jasley Beck, as just one example where at just 19 years old she took her life in her barracks after her allegations of persistent harassment and sexual assault by her superior were dismissed with a minor sanction.

This week’s headlines of bribery by a person in a position of trust highlights much more needs to be done, both to protect those reporting abuse and ensure independent investigations are carried out.

This follows previous concerns of hundreds of women coming forward last year disclosing sexual abuse during army medicals over a number of decades.

Having suffered abuse, the individual is likely required to remain working in close proximality to the perpetrator(s) and those investigating the allegations are often not independent in a closed environment and information regarding the allegations can leak within the platoon.

Often, survivors talk about the reluctance to come forward for the ongoing impact this may have on career progression and doors will be shut for them.

The military has been heavily criticised over the years for the power structure and clearly there must be significant changes to protect our service women.

Recent statistics showed two thirds of 900,000 military personnel interviewed experienced sexual behaviour.

The Ministry of Defence provided findings of the 2025 survey which confirmed:

• 67% of females experienced at least one sexualised behaviour in the last 12 months compared to 34% male
• 76% stated sexualised behaviour most commonly occurred in an open workplace at the military home or training unit
• Males (68%) were more likely than females (42%) believe services try to prevent sexual harassment

The need for safe and independent reporting

The Ministry of Defence state they have been developing proposals for a tri-service complaints unit that would enable serious allegations, including sexual offences, to be investigated independently of the traditional chain of command. Legislative changes were expected during the summer, however, no further updates have been published since March 2026.

For many survivors this is not enough and for years a clear independent process with transparency has been fought for.

The key goal for reporting of abuse within the military should be to protect the individual and make them feel safe in disclosure. Reporting of abuse should allow designated officers to investigate whilst that allegations will not be leaked or interrupt/ prevent progression within the individual’s career.

Of course, we highlight the above relating to female personnel, but of course, we also represent a number of male service men who also suffer sexual abuse within the military.

From a safeguarding perspective, it is vital to create environments in which survivors feel able to come forward without fear of pressure or retaliation. Institutions must ensure that those entrusted with supporting individuals are appropriately trained and held accountable when that trust is breached.

Supporting survivors

At Switalskis, we are specialist abuse solicitors who represents those who have worked in the military and suffered sexual abuse.

We understand the courage it takes to report abuse, particularly where concerns have been raised about the way allegations have been handled. Our team is committed to providing clear, confidential and sensitive legal advice.

If you have experienced abuse in an institutional setting, our specialist Child Abuse team can provide confidential advice and support. Contact us on 01924 970 009 or get in touch through the Switalskis website.