Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps, including external and internal publicity, advertising, identification, coaching and support, they have taken to recruit women to the close combat regiments, units and roles such as the infantry, Royal Armoured Corps, Household Cavalry and special forces units since these roles were first opened to women in 2018.

Since close combat roles were opened to women in 2018, the Army has used inclusive advertising, targeted engagement and tailored support to encourage women to consider careers across the Army, including roles previously closed to them.

This activity is intended to support women through the main stages of the recruiting journey. Inclusive campaigns such as ‘You Belong Here’ and female-focused social media activity help raise awareness and show that Army careers, including close combat roles, are open to women. Women in Combat events, Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics events, work experience and targeted outreach provide opportunities to learn more about roles and ask questions before applying. Fitness support, mentoring, female ambassadors, ‘Ask a Soldier’ activity, young officer nurture events and digital guidance through the Army Readiness App are intended to build confidence, provide practical advice and support candidates through the recruitment process. Recruiter training supports more confident and informed engagement with under-represented groups.

These measures support female recruitment across the Army rather than being targeted at individual regiments, units or roles. Activities such as ‘Women in Combat’ engagement, serving female ambassadors, tailored support events and inclusive marketing are relevant to women considering close combat roles as they increase awareness, provide access to role models and help candidates understand and prepare for the recruitment process.