LGBT Veterans Have 100 Days Remaining to Apply for Financial Recognition

Veterans discharged or impacted by the ban on LGBT personnel in the armed forces have 100 days remaining to apply for the government’s restorative measures.

The measures were introduced after an independent review examined the impact of the ban on LGBT personnel serving in the UK Armed Forces between 1967 and 2000.

The government is issuing a final call at GOV.UK/affected-by-the-ban for eligible veterans before the application deadline closes on 12 December.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said:

No individual should be subjected to persecution or forced to conceal their identity. The ban inflicted lasting damage on numerous brave service members who served our nation.

I encourage all eligible veterans to apply before the deadline expires in 100 days and ask everyone in the armed forces and LGBT+ communities to share this information.

Veterans who were dismissed or discharged under the ban are entitled to a £50,000 financial recognition payment, and may also receive an additional Impact Payment of up to £20,000 for harms such as investigations, harassment, or disciplinary actions.

Minister for Equalities, Simon Lightwood MP, said:

The removal of LGBT+ veterans from the armed forces or the prohibition of their service represents a regrettable chapter in our nation’s history.

Our government is committed to ensuring that those affected receive appropriate recognition and that such injustice never recurs. With 100 days remaining to apply, it is everyone’s responsibility to disseminate this information and secure the justice they deserve.

Non‑financial restorative measures comprise an official letter of apology, replacement of service items, and a restoration ceremony.

Jean served in the British Army as a physical training instructor with the Women’s Royal Army Corps.

Her service was terminated following an investigation under the Armed Forces LGBT Ban, which left a lasting impact on her confidence, identity, self‑worth, and continued to affect her life after leaving the Army.

Jean has applied for restorative measures; although the process was occasionally challenging, it enabled her to discuss the events and understand that the shame did not belong to her.

Jean said:

When your country turns its back on you, you feel completely worthless.

Jean now urges other individuals affected by the ban to apply before the 12 December deadline, stating:

Please come forward. You need not face this alone, and support is available to guide you through the process.

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