The Ministry of Defence is to fund a 12-month pilot that will give victims of rape and sexual offences allegedly committed by service personnel free legal support to navigate what the veterans minister called 'a daunting journey to justice'.
Announcing a new Independent Legal Advocacy Service last week, the MoD said over-18s who report an offence committed by someone subject to service law or a civilian subject to service discipline being investigated by the Service Justice System will qualify for the new support. Solicitors external to the MoD will help complainants understand their rights, and advise on issues such as data disclosure and the implications of sharing phone or medical records.
The 12-month pilot, which begins in April, could be extended if it is successful. The MoD said it was unable to comment on how many solicitors will be involved in the scheme due to an ‘ongoing commercial process’ and how much money has been allocated to the new service.
Veterans minister Louise Sandher-Jones said: 'We are determined that those who come forward to report rape or sexual assault get support they need. The new Independent Legal Advocacy service will ensure that, for the first time in defence, victim-survivors get free, independent legal advice - completely outside the chain of command - to help them understand their rights and navigate what can be a daunting journey to justice.
'This initiative is part of our government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve and reflects the seriousness with which we are taking this issue.'
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