1000 LGBT Veterans may miss Financial Recognition Scheme compensation

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Military charity, Fighting With Pride, has estimated that at least one thousand people risk missing the deadline for financial compensation for the impact felt by the military’s ‘gay ban’.

The above estimate comes from the chief executive of the charity, Peter Gibson, who went on to add:

“We know many felt so shunned and hurt by their brutal treatment that they have distanced themselves from both the military and the LGBTQ+ communities.

“We’re determined to restore your pride and dignity in service.”

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated to the BBC in the same article:

“We are working hard to make sure eligible veterans know these schemes are available to them, through collaborating with local councils, the NHS, and other organisations and charities.”

LGBT Veterans

When is the deadline for the LGBT Recognition Scheme?

The window for applications has been open since the 13th of December 2024, and it closes on the 12th of December 2026 – less than six months from now.

With this deadline approaching fast, we have compiled some information about the scheme in the hope of spreading further awareness.

Which veterans can apply for the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme?

This scheme is in place to compensate those who have:

Served in HM Armed Forces between 27th July 1967 – 11th January 2000.
Been affected by the Ban on LGBT personnel serving in HM Armed Forces.

What compensation is offered in the LGBT scheme?

Based on criteria provided by the government, there are two tiers of compensation available to eligible veterans:

LGBT Dismissed or Discharged Payment

A £50,000 fixed sum is payable to those eligible who were dismissed or administratively discharged, including officers ordered or instructed to resign or retire due to their actual or perceived orientation or gender identity when the ban was in place.

LGBT Impact Payment

This is a payment based on the personal impact of the ban, calculated on a compensation level between 1-3:

Level 1: £1,000 – £5,000.
Level 2: £5,001 – £10,000.
Level 3: £10,001 – £20,000.

Would any potential award affect other benefits?

Don’t worry. These payments are tax exempt, and they will not interfere with any existing benefits you receive or any other potential compensation claims.

Can I speak to a Solicitor before I proceed?

Yes you can. We offer a free initial consultation, at which point we should be able to tell you whether or not you may be eligible to make a claim.

Will my enquiry be treated in confidence?

You will be treated with the respect and dignity you deserve, and in complete confidentiality. All matters are professionally handled, and any requirement to share information with the Ministry of Defence will be thoroughly discussed with you beforehand.

Even if you make an enquiry, there is no obligation to proceed with a claim if you don’t feel able.

Am I ready to make a claim?

If after all these years, you still feel a sense of distress about past experiences – it would be advisable to consult your GP and/or therapist to discuss with them if you feel up to making such a claim.

Our team aims to make things as pain-free as possible, but only you know whether or not you feel up to handling the psychological pressure that may result from revisiting your past.

Do I need to instruct a Solicitor to make a claim?

No, there is no requirement to have a legal representative handling your case. However, having such expertise to hand can take a lot of the worry out of makin a claim, as we handle all the paperwork and liaisons on your behalf.

We also have extensive knowledge of the legal framework for such claims, so we are able to offer the best advice on how your case should move forward.

1000 LGBT Veterans may miss Financial Recognition Scheme compensation deadline