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Sexual and domestic violence in the military challenges recruitment, retention, team cohesion, operational readiness, security and organizational health. Yet, most militaries around the world are still struggling to effectively address these problems. Gaps in the response harm military families, and allow the destruction of the careers and health of survivors. The Safe & Together Institute, through its work with the UK Ministry of Defence, has seen the positive impact of domestic violence-informed practice in this area.

In this episode, David & Ruth speak with Amy Braley Frank, founder of Never Alone Soldiers, and Joanna, a survivor who now advocates for others. Never Alone Soldiers advocates for the safety and wellbeing of military personnel and families affected by sexual or domestic violence. They assist victims, advise them and push for greater transparency, accountability and policy changes, leaving no one behind.

Ruth & David discuss with Amy & Joanna:

• Current problematic military attitudes & practices in responding to perpetrators
• Silencing of victim/survivors of sexual and domestic violence
• Never Alone’s advocacy for victims and drive for systemic change
• Retention policies enabling those with histories of criminality and violence
• Adverse career impacts for service members reporting abuse
• Links between unaddressed military violence issues and domestic violence perpetration in law enforcement

Joanna shares her experiences seeking safety from domestic abuse, and how policies, communication approaches and attitudes endangered her and others. She discusses how Never Alone successfully pushed for her perpetrator's removal.

Amy defines policy and cultural changes needed to support survivors over retaining perpetrators.

Learn more about Never Alone

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Check out David Mandel's new book "Stop Blaming Mothers and Ignoring Fathers: How to transform the way we keep children safe from domestic violence."