Bullying & Harassment

Bullying, harassment, and unacceptable behaviour have no place in the Armed Forces.

Yet many serving personnel and veterans experience behaviour that goes beyond “banter” and begins to affect their health, career, and wellbeing.

👉 If you’ve been affected, you may have options, including making a claim

What Is bullying and harassment?

Bullying and harassment can take many forms, including:

• Verbal abuse, intimidation, or humiliation
• Offensive “banter” that goes too far
• Discrimination based on gender, race, or background
• Sexual harassment or inappropriate behaviour
• Abuse of rank or position
• Persistent unfair treatment or targeting

In military environments, these behaviours are sometimes normalised, but that doesn’t make them acceptable.

The Armed Forces Unacceptable Behaviour Policy

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has made it clear:

👉 Unacceptable behaviour will not be tolerated

The Armed Forces have introduced policies and procedures to prevent and address:

• Bullying
• Harassment
• Discrimination
• Sexual misconduct

These are supported by initiatives such as training, reporting systems, and independent investigation processes.

There are also formal complaint routes, including:

• The Service Complaints process
• Independent investigation teams
• Specialist support for victims

👉 You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect

When “banter” becomes bullying

In many cases, behaviour is dismissed as “just banter”.

However, the line is crossed when it:

• Becomes persistent or targeted
• Causes distress, anxiety, or harm
• Creates a hostile or degrading environment

Research has shown that inappropriate behaviours, including bullying and harassment, can damage individuals, team cohesion, and operational effectiveness. 

👉 If it affects you, it matters

How common is bullying and harassment?

Evidence suggests this remains a real issue within the Armed Forces.

Surveys have found that around 1 in 10 personnel report experiencing bullying, harassment, or discrimination in a 12-month period. 

Many cases go unreported due to concerns about:

• Impact on career
• Chain of command
• Not being taken seriously

👉 You’re not alone and support is available

Can you make a claim?

You may be able to bring a claim if:

• The behaviour caused psychological or physical harm
• The MOD failed to prevent or address it
• Proper procedures were not followed
• Complaints were ignored or mishandled

This could include claims for:

• Psychiatric injury (e.g. stress, anxiety, PTSD)
• Loss of career or earnings
• Ongoing medical treatment

👉 Each case depends on the specific circumstances

What if you’re still serving?

You can still seek advice.

Many people worry that speaking up or making a claim will affect their career.

In reality:

• There are confidential ways to get advice
• Claims are about addressing wrongdoing, not causing problems
• Early guidance can help you make informed decisions

What should you do if you’ve experienced bullying or harassment?

If you feel able to, you may consider:

• Keeping a record of incidents
• Reporting through the appropriate channels
• Seeking medical or welfare support

However, you don’t have to navigate this alone.

👉 Getting independent advice can help you understand your options

How our members can help

Forces Law is a network of specialist law firms experienced in military-related claims.

Our members can:

• Assess whether you may have a claim
• Advise on your rights and options
• Support cases involving bullying and harassment
• Help you move forward with confidence

👉 You’ll be connected with the right expert for your situation

Not sure if your situation counts?

Many people hesitate because:

• “It’s just how things are”
• “I don’t want to make a fuss”
• “It might affect my career”

But unacceptable behaviour is taken seriously and you have rights.

👉 A confidential conversation can give you clarity

Speak to a specialist 

If you’ve experienced bullying or harassment during service, don’t ignore it.

👉 Call now on 0808 271 0444

👉 Request a callback

👉 Send a message

Free, confidential advice. No obligation.

The most important point that we can make is to take advice from one of our specialist firms as soon as possible if you have any related query.