Harrogate Army college faces sexual abuse allegations

Harrogate Army college faces calls for independent inquiry after sexual abuse allegations

The Army Foundation College in Harrogate is facing calls for an independent inquiry after former female recruits described alleged rape, sexual abuse and harassment while training as teenagers.

Four young women told the BBC about alleged incidents at the college within the past five years. All said they were 17 years old at the time.

One former recruit alleged she was raped by several fellow junior soldiers, while others described sexual harassment and abuse and raised concerns about misogynistic behaviour.

The British Army has described the reports as “deeply concerning and serious”, saying unacceptable or criminal behaviour has no place in the Armed Forces.

176 complaints recorded

According to Ministry of Defence figures cited in reporting, 176 complaints involving inappropriate sexual behaviour were recorded at the Harrogate college between January 2018 and June 2025.

Of these, 144 involved junior soldiers and 32 involved permanent staff.

North Yorkshire Police also received 16 reports of sexual offences connected with the college in the year to June, according to information obtained through Freedom of Information requests.

Police appeal to victims

North Yorkshire Police says it is supporting victims and their families and has urged anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to come forward — regardless of how long ago it happened.

A spokesperson said:

“We encourage victims to come forward to the police and seek the specialist support that is readily available, no matter how long ago the offences took place.”

The Army Foundation College trains young people, including 16 and 17-year-olds, making safeguarding a central issue in the growing calls for an independent inquiry.

Read the full BBC investigation:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cm2g8pe13x5o