Former members of the UK military can now apply for a digital version of their identity cards, marking a significant step in the government’s wider plans for a nationwide digital ID scheme.
New Digital ID for 1.8 Million Veterans Now Available
Starting today, an estimated 1.8 million veterans are eligible to download the new digital ID directly to their smartphones.
While physical veterans’ cards will still be issued, the government says this digital counterpart will make it easier for former service personnel to prove their status and access essential services and benefits.
A “Case Study” for National Digital IDs
Ministers are positioning the veterans’ digital ID as a vital “case study” to demonstrate how the technology for the planned UK-wide digital ID scheme will function.
This wider, mandatory scheme was announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer last month as part of an effort to combat illegal working and is slated for introduction by 2029.
Digital Government Minister Ian Murray highlighted that the veterans’ rollout could help address “legitimate concerns around privacy and security” of the future, broader scheme.
“The veteran’s ID was probably a demonstration to the public by default on the basis that this is the first use case for having a digital credential on your smartphone, and that digital credential is the first sort of verifiable one that the government have now launched,” Murray stated.
Easier Access to Essential Services
The digital veteran card is optional but offers numerous benefits. It will allow former service personnel to effortlessly show their entitlement to a range of services, including:
- GP and mental health support
- Supported housing.
- Careers advice
- Reduced entry prices at museums
- Retail discounts
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: “We are modernising our public services, so they work around people’s lives and keep pace with the digital world we live in. The digital veterans’ card will help remove barriers, reduce red tape and make it easier for people to access the public services they need.”
The digital veteran card will be the first document to be securely stored within the government’s One Login smartphone app, with digital driving licences expected to follow at a later date.
Armed Forces Legal Support
Serving in the military is an honourable and often challenging role. Every career in the Armed Forces carries risks that may result in injury or lasting illness. Knowing how to navigate legal matters can make the transition back to civilian life easier.
With the help of a specialised Military Claims solicitor, you can pursue the compensation you deserve for injuries or illnesses sustained during your service, legal support for family matters or help selling or buying a property or making a Will.
Frequently asked questions:
What military legal services does Oakwood Solicitors offer?
Navigating military legal claims for compensation can be complex, but understanding your rights and the process involved is crucial.
This legal support can be vital in helping you recover and move forward with your life. Click on one of our services to find out more.
What are the different ways we can claim compensation for you?
As well as claiming through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, if your injury was caused due to your employer’s negligence, you also may be entitled to make a civil claim.
Although military service involves facing dangerous situations, your employer is required to ensure your safety by providing:
- Safe Systems of Work: Implementing procedures and practices that reduce risks and ensure tasks are performed safely.
- Appropriate Work Equipment: Supplying and maintaining safe equipment for use.
- Sufficient Training: Offering adequate training so personnel can perform their duties safely and handle hazardous situations effectively.
If these responsibilities are not fulfilled, leading to an injury, you may have a valid compensation claim. This can cover various damages, including physical injuries, psychological effects, and financial losses.
- Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)
At Oakwood Solicitors Ltd, we can assist you in pursuing a claim through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS), which compensates those who have suffered injury, illness, or death during UK Armed Forces service.
You can claim for any injury or illness which has been caused by service in the armed forces, during training or in active duty, from hearing loss, and arthritis to amputations or mental health issues.
Claims made through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme should be made within 7 years of the date the injury was sustained, made worse or, in the case of illness, the date of first seeking medical advice for that illness. However, if claimants were under the age of 18 when the injury occurred, they will have 9 years to make a claim.
With our team of legal experts, we strive to secure the compensation you deserve to help you with your recovery and future needs.
Which Armed Services does the scheme cover?
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme covers all regular service personnel, the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, and members of the reserves for all three services. You can claim whether you still serve or have left HM Armed Forces.
What types of Military Injuries does the scheme cover?
You may be entitled to claim compensation if you have an injury, illness or medical disorder caused or worsened by working in the UK Armed Forces Service. This includes accidents sustained in training exercises or active duty, resulting in physical or mental health conditions.
We have rounded up common injuries that may be claimed for; however, this list is not exhaustive:
- Accidents involving road traffic.
- Injuries during military training exercises
- Parachuting-related injuries
- Injuries from fires and explosions
- The harm caused by inadequate or faulty equipment and machinery.
- Injuries sustained during mountaineering activities.
- Non-freezing cold injuries
Time limits explained
Claims for these types of injuries or illnesses must be made within 7 years of the earliest of the following dates:
- The date of the incident leading to the injury or illness.
- The date on which an injury or illness not caused by service was made worse by service.
- In the case of illness, the date of first seeking medical advice for that illness.
- The date of discharge
However, there are certain circumstances when a claim will be accepted outside the time limits above, such as being prevented from claiming due to ill health or your illness occurring later.
Why should I use Oakwood Solicitors Ltd?
At Oakwood Solicitors Ltd, we have a dedicated team of experienced legal military claims experts who will advise the best route to take to ensure you seek justice for your injuries.
Our solicitors specialise in military claims, including complex cases such as hearing loss, PTSD, and medical negligence. We can also assist with other matters such as writing a Will, property, and family law.
Oakwood Solicitors is committed to supporting Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and reservists, whether they are still serving or have entered civilian life. Proudly partnered with veterans’ charity, Front Foot, we aim to support veterans in all aspects of life.
Further information:
Military veterans can now download their digital ID card.
Oakwood solicitors: Armed Forces Legal Support.
WHAT TO DO NEXT:
If you are looking for Armed Forces Military legal support, get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation.
Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page or call us on 0113 360 2449 to find out how we can help you.
Liam Hill is a Solicitor and Deputy Head of the Industrial Disease Team, having trained and qualified at Oakwood Solicitors. Liam joined us in 2013 after successfully completing the Legal Practice C…
Guide to Military Injury Claims for Compensation
Serving in the military is an honourable and often challenging role, carrying with it risks that can sometimes result in injury or illness.
If you have been harmed while serving in…
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