Rising abuse claims at AFC Harrogate put spotlight on teenager recruits and safeguarding practices; college remains the UK’s sole Phase 1 unit for under-18s.
Four young women have told the BBC they were sexually assaulted and harassed at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, prompting calls for an independent inquiry and reforms. The Army says unacceptable behaviour has no place in its forces and urges victims to come forward. Reports outline a pattern of misconduct dating back years, with official data showing hundreds of complaints linked to the college.