Hi there

I can’t speak for the Infantry, but as a Royal Armoured Corps Officer who was in the Training Regiment
when women were first able to join combat roles. I saw the first batches of female officers come through training and move onto regiment.

The quality and motivation of every female officer I saw go through training was very high and this continued when they arrived at regiment. 6 years later and many have moved into roles across the regiment including the high profile ones. The most important thing soldiers care about whether someone is able to do their job well and is a good leader.

20 July, 2024 23:31

YES!

Women have been fully integrated into the infantry since 2018, and the Army has changed significantly during this time. The acceptance of female soldiers and officers by their peers in the infantry has blended seamlessly with these changes, making the transition smooth and almost unnoticeable.
Having served for over 12 years, I've witnessed firsthand the evolution of the modern Army, especially within the infantry. Initially, we experienced integration through the amalgamation and disbandment of battalions and regiments, bringing together soldiers from all different unit in the Scots, R Welsh, and Various English battalions to like the Rifles, Mercians and Lancs. As job roles also changed, we had to adapt and overcome. As Robert mentioned, gender doesn't matter if you can do the job.
The teething stage was challenging, as it required finding willing and capable people. Now, we have many exceptional females within our units. I'm proud to have coached the first female to win the Army Boxing Championships as a member of the Royal Regiment of Scotland. She not only broke down barriers for females in the infantry but also became one of the best fighters.
Acceptance by peers can vary based on individual attitudes and the culture within specific units. However, in my experience, units and soldiers are supportive and recognize the value and capabilities that female soldiers bring to the infantry. Female soldiers may still face challenges, including overcoming stereotypes and proving their physical and leadership abilities. However, the Army is committed to addressing these challenges through education, training, and a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination and harassment.
We now have a strong presence of successful female officers and soldiers in the infantry who serve as role models, paving the way for greater acceptance and integration. Their performance and professionalism contribute significantly to changing perceptions.
Overall, while the transition has had its challenges, I think I can say by now in 2024, it has become the norm. In fact, the introduction of beards in the infantry was perhaps more controversial than women joining!! In the Army, we do pride ourselves on our ability to improvise, adapt, and overcome. Suppose this was just another one of those and a change I think for the better and something people are simply used to now.

I hope this helps you and I would really encourage you to have a go and not be put off because of this worry you might have!

23 July, 2024 14:46

Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to reply. I have now applied after reading this and I will hopefully start training soon. Thank you for your help

23 July, 2024 16:04