The government has increased compensation for LGBT veterans who were impacted by the ban on gay individuals serving in the armed forces, with over £31 million already paid out to 949 veterans. The Ministry of Defence has bolstered its payments team and implemented an automated processing system to expedite applications to the Financial Recognition Scheme.
This ban, which persisted until 2000 despite the decriminalization of homosexuality, led to the dismissal of numerous individuals from the Army, Royal Navy, and RAF. Many faced harassment, bullying, involuntary outing, and even imprisonment due to their sexual orientation.
Minister for Veterans and People, Louise Sandher-Jones MP, expressed the government’s commitment to addressing the historical injustices suffered by LGBT personnel. The Financial Recognition Scheme, designed to acknowledge the mistreatment of LGBT individuals between 1967 and 2000, will close in December 2026, encouraging more LGBT veterans to come forward, especially elderly applicants, those with severe health conditions, and individuals experiencing significant financial challenges.
Fighting With Pride’s campaign has long advocated for the recognition, support, and compensation of LGBT veterans. Claire Ashton, a transgender woman and former gunner in the Royal Artillery who faced bullying as early as 1969, welcomed the payments as a significant milestone, emphasizing the importance of the government and Ministry of Defence acknowledging their past wrongdoings.
King Charles recently paid tribute to LGBT+ armed forces veterans at a new memorial, affirming support for those affected by the ban on service. While progress has been made, Fighting With Pride’s Chief Executive, Peter Gibson, highlighted the need for improved decision-making speed in the Impact Panel and emphasized the importance of including veterans dismissed before 1967 in reparations. Gibson called for enhanced resources for a publicity campaign to ensure all eligible veterans benefit from the scheme.