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As the inquest continues into the heart-breaking death of Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck at Larkhill Camp in Wiltshire on 15th December 2021 we are again made aware of the tragic circumstances that led to Gunner Beck taking her own life.
In October 2023 a military inquiry report published what was described as “an intense period of unwelcome behaviour”. Gunner Beck was subjected to over 3,000 inappropriate and possessive messages from Bombardier Ryan Mason, her line manager.
Since this aired on Monday 10th February there has been an outpouring of similar experiences over the years. Unfortunately all of them tell the same story of not being taken seriously, heard or the issue dealt with. It seems there have been no lessons learnt by the MOD.
Many have reached out over social media to share their experiences and Fillyourboots - FYBUK received the following from the Provost Marshall responsible for serious crime in the MOD:
We haven’t met but I’m the Provost Marshal responsible for Serious Crime in the MOD. I’ve seen the recent posts on FYB and wanted to reach out and ask if you could post the following message – I’m not trying to limit reputational damage, I’m simply interested in making sure victims of crime are supported. Really happy for you to say this has come from me if you want but would rather you didn’t give out my e-mail.
The Defence Serious Crime Command (DSCC) have been made aware of multiple allegations of sexual assaults and harassment which have happened to people, particularly women, whilst serving in the UK Armed Forces. We are responsible for investigating serious crimes within Defence, including sexual assault and harassment, and operate independently of the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force.
Thank you to everyone who has spoken out on social media. Anyone wishing to report an incident will be treated with respect and can do so in multiple ways. Any subsequent action will be based on the victim's wishes and specific circumstances: DSCC can be contacted 24/7 via the Service Police Crime Bureau at 02392 285 170; Crimestoppers can be reached at 0800 555 111; Alternatively, complaints can be reported directly to the civilian police. There is no need for anyone to speak directly to their chain of command to report an allegation.
Anyone wanting to discuss victim support can contact the Victim Witness Care Unit , which operates independently from the single service Chain of Command, on 07974 074259 or via email people-dscc-vwcugroup@mod.gov.uk. Any information provided to the Victim Witness Care Unit will be treated in confidence and you can discuss your options for reporting any allegations.
Further information and support can be found on the Defence Connect Call it Out Hub.
The crux of the matter is that more needs to be done. We need to be more responsible and accountable to our men and women in service.
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