The government led by Andy Burnham has confirmed that LGBT veterans discharged or impacted by the ban on LGBT personnel in the armed forces have 100 days left to apply for restorative measures, including financial recognition payments of up to £70,000.
The announcement came from the Ministry of Defence, with Simon Lightwood MP and Defence Secretary Wes Streeting MP making the statement on Thursday, September 3. The measures were introduced following an independent review into the impact of the ban on LGBT personnel serving in the UK Armed Forces between 1967 and 2000.
Financial recognition and impact payments
Eligible veterans dismissed or discharged because of the ban can receive a financial recognition payment of £50,000. Veterans may also be eligible for an Impact Payment of up to £20,000 if they experienced other harms such as investigations, harassment, or disciplinary action.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said: "No one should face persecution or have to hide who they are. The ban caused lasting harm to many brave personnel who served our country.
"I hope all eligible veterans come forward before the application deadline closes in 100 days, and urge everybody across our armed forces and LGBT+ communities to spread the word."
Government urges veterans to come forward
Minister for Equalities, Simon Lightwood MP, said: "LGBT+ veterans being removed from or banned from joining the armed forces is a shameful chapter in our country’s history.
"This government wants to ensure what they went through is properly recognised; it must never happen again. Veterans affected have just 100 days left to apply for recognition. It is up to all of us to spread the word and make sure they get the justice they deserve."
Jean served in the British Army with the Women’s Royal Army Corps as a physical training instructor. She said: "When your country turns its back on you, you just feel worthless. Please come forward. You don’t have to do this on your own, and there is support to help you through it."
The government has emphasised that the application window is limited, with only 100 days remaining for eligible veterans to submit their claims. The restorative measures are part of a broader effort to address the historical injustices faced by LGBT personnel who served during the period when the ban was in place.
