Report in relation to abuse in the Submarine Service is finally released

At Jordans Solicitors, we have highlighted on a number of occasions the reports of allegations into bullying, misogyny and sexual harassment against personnel in the Armed Forces generally but with particular reference to the Royal Navy and the Submarine Service.

The abuse of Ms Sophie Brook, a former Lieutenant Royal Navy, has been widely reported in the media and in 2022 an internal inquiry was ordered in relation to misconduct and inappropriate behaviour in the Submarine Service. In April of this year, I highlighted the delays in publishing the outcome of the inquiry. 

The report was finally published on 4 October 2024. No reason for the delay in publishing the report has been given. The report focused in particular on the allegations made by Ms Brook but the investigation interviewed 43 people and related to allegations of abuse as far back as 2014. 

In addition to allegations of sexual assault, it was also alleged that the survivors of abuse were discouraged by an officer from reporting it and complaints of abuse were ignored. 

The Royal Navy says that it has investigated 28 separate matters which has led to the discharge of 21 individuals, with four being reduced in rank and six facing disciplinary or administrative action. 3 of those discharged related to the complaints by Ms Brook.

The investigation has not however led to any charges of sexual assault. Some of the allegations were reported to the Ministry of Defences serious crime unit but the Royal Navy concluded that  there was insufficient evidence to bring any prosecutions.

It was accepted in the report that a number of the incidents of inappropriate behaviour were caused by a culture in the service that permitted or normalised that behaviour. 

The report made 31 recommendations in relation to the allegations and 6 further recommendations of a wider nature for consideration. The report has now been passed to the command of the service for follow-on action.        

The First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key who ordered the inquiry has stated that he was "truly sorry" to Ms Brook and any personnel past and present who had faced unacceptable behaviour.

Jordans solicitors are acting on behalf of personnel in the armed forces whom it is alleged were sexually abused. 

We have a long history of successfully pursuing claim relating to abuse in these and other types of institutions

Compensation is a small step towards taking control of your life and getting the justice you deserve.

We understand how difficult it can be for you to talk about the abuse you suffered during your childhood. That’s why our specially trained child abuse solicitors work closely alongside psychologists and barristers to support you both emotionally and legally.

Justice for sexual abuse survivors should be accessible no matter how long ago it happened. That’s why we fought for a landmark change in the law, which allows an abuse claim to be brought before a court regardless of when it took place.

If you want to discuss the options that are open to you, please contact our specialist Abuse Team at Jordans Solicitors