In a bold move to tackle unacceptable behaviours within the military and enhance support for women in the Armed Forces, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has announced the introduction of a new Tri-Service complaints unit. This is part of a broader series of reforms aimed at eradicating misconduct, improving military culture, and ensuring equality for all personnel.
The Tri-Service complaints unit will handle the most serious cases, including bullying, harassment, and discrimination, outside the individual service chains of command. This change is designed to give service members greater confidence in the complaints process, ensuring that cases are addressed swiftly, fairly, and consistently across the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. The unit will build on the 2022 reform, which removed complaints from the direct chain of command, allowing for greater independence.
This is just one part of a wider set of initiatives designed to improve the experience of women serving in the military. In addition, the MOD is launching a Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Taskforce, led by Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Alistair Carns. This taskforce aims to spearhead cultural improvements within the department, providing vital support for service members affected by violence. A network of regional champions will work alongside the Defence Voices Panel, a challenge group made up of personnel and civil servants, to provide real-world feedback and ensure the policies are effectively implemented.
Minister Carns, who is set to present these new measures before the House of Commons Defence Select Committee, reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling unacceptable behaviour in the military. He stressed the importance of equality for women, not only for fairness but also for the effectiveness of the military.
“Our people have spoken, and we have listened,” Carns said. “We are moving quickly to create a new Tri-Service Complaints team and launch a central taskforce to ensure that this issue gets the focus and action it deserves.”
The VAWG Taskforce will include specialists in domestic violence and sexual offending, supported by a multidisciplinary network of healthcare providers, social workers, and HR advisors. These experts will be linked with the Victim Witness Care Unit, providing comprehensive support for those in need.
The MOD’s commitment to improving service life is part of a broader strategy to renew the contract with those who serve and ensure the future strength of the UK’s national security. The government has also introduced the Armed Forces Commissioner Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. This bill will create the first independent champion for serving personnel and their families, with powers to hold the MOD accountable and drive continuous improvement in service life.
The government’s dedication to supporting the Armed Forces is further reflected in the recent pay rises and landmark housing deal aimed at improving conditions for military families.
These fundamental changes signal a strong commitment to not only improving the Armed Forces’ internal culture but also ensuring that women in Defence are supported and treated equally, contributing to a more effective and inclusive military.
