'Incredibly upsetting' claims of sexual assaults on young female army recruits prompt pledge by Deputy Mayor

'Incredibly upsetting' claims of sexual assaults at Harrogate Army Foundation College prompt pledge by Deputy Mayor

North Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime has said hearing new allegations of sexual assaults at Army Foundation College in Harrogate was “incredibly upsetting”.

Reacting to news reports of sexual offences at the town’s army apprentices college, Jo Coles, Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime said her thoughts were with those who had shared their experiences as well as with any victims who may not have felt able to speak out.

So concerning were the allegations, she pledged to hold the police to account for the progress they were making.

"The reports this week regarding the experiences of former Army Foundation College recruits in Harrogate are incredibly upsetting,” said the Deputy Mayor.

Jo Coles, North Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime said hearing allegations of sexual assaults at Army Foundation College recruits in Harrogate was “incredibly upsetting”. (Picture contributed)

"My thoughts are with the women who have shared their experiences as well as with any victims who may not have felt able to speak out.

“Regardless of when events took place, the impact on every victim will still be very real and everyone who experiences sexual violence or abuse deserves to be listened to, treated with respect and supported to seek justice.

"As part of my role I will continue to hold North Yorkshire Police to account for the progress they are making.”

The alleged string of sexual offences at the Army Foundation College has become a national story with several politicians joining Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon in calling for an independent inquiry into the matter.

North Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime said her focus would remain on the victims throughout.

"I share the chair of the Parliamentary Defence Committee, Emma Lewell MP's view that there is a pressing need for an independent inquiry into the college so that there are wider assurances that young people are being kept safe.

"My focus will remain on the victims, ensuring they are heard, supported and able to access the services they need.

"It is also vital that all organisations and services are continually learning and improving their safeguarding arrangements.

"I would support any review or action that enables that to happen.”