A step towards better protection for victims

Parliament is debating the Armed Forces (Service Justice Reforms) Bill today, 26 January 2026, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about how serious and sexual harm is addressed within the military justice system. While the Bill is not yet law, it contains proposals that, if enacted, could deliver meaningful improvements in protection and support for victims, something Bolt Burdon Kemp has long championed.

These reforms aim to give victims greater choice over how their cases are handled and strengthen safeguards across the service justice system. The proposals have sparked important debate, and BBK welcomes the focus on ensuring justice and care for those who serve.

Service personnel, veterans, and their families often face complex challenges when harm occurs in the context of military service. Barriers to reporting, lack of independent support, and confusion about pathways to justice have all been highlighted by veterans’ groups, lawyers, charities and advocates.

At Bolt Burdon Kemp, we have consistently called for a system that recognises the unique circumstances of military life while upholding the same standards of fairness, dignity, and support that every victim deserves.

Our Manifest, particularly, Protecting Those Who Protect Us, lays out a clear vision for reform. Key pillars include:

• Accessible and confidential reporting mechanisms, so victims can come forward with confidence.
• Independent support and advocacy, ensuring people understand their legal options and rights.
• Robust accountability structures, so perpetrators are held to account and systemic failings are addressed.
• Specialist support for victims of sexual harm, acknowledging the deep and lasting impact such experiences can have.

BBK, support organisations, victims and bereaved families have all worked hard to amplify the voices of those affected and to push for meaningful change.

The Armed Forces (Service Justice Reforms) Bill includes a series of proposed changes designed to modernise how serious and sexual offences are dealt with. These proposals are intended to:

• Expand victims’ choice in how their cases progress.
• Strengthen protective measures and oversight.
• Provide a more victim-centred process while maintaining fairness for all involved.

It is important to stress that these are proposals under debate, not yet enacted into law. BBK will continue to monitor developments closely and contribute where we can to ensure the final legislation reflects the needs of victims.

Policy proposals are only the first step. Real progress will be judged by how these changes are put into practice, whether victims feel safer reporting harm, whether they are supported throughout, and whether justice outcomes improve as a result.

Those who protect us must be protected when things go wrong. Strengthening safeguards for victims in the Armed Forces is an important and necessary step. At BBK, we welcome the focus on victims’ rights and support in the Bill, and we encourage careful attention to implementation as the process moves forward.

BBK remains committed to providing expert support and representation to service personnel and veterans who have suffered physical or psychological harm because of their military career. Whether arising from service-related incidents, training, or deployment, our specialist team can provide guidance on legal rights and options.

If you or someone you know has been harmed and is unsure where to turn, contact Bolt Burdon Kemp to discuss your situation and how we can help.