LGBT financial recognition scheme

Individuals impacted by the historic prohibition on openly serving in the UK Armed Forces now have a limited timeframe to apply for compensation. This ban, which lasted from 1967 until 2000, prevented LGBT individuals from serving openly and resulted in many being dismissed. These dismissals often caused long-lasting harm to their military careers and mental well-being.

In response to these past injustices, the Government introduced a set of restorative actions in 2023, one of which was the launch of a financial recognition scheme in December 2024. This initiative aims to provide redress to those who suffered under the ban. A key component of the scheme is a flat payment of £50,000 awarded to veterans who were dismissed, discharged, or pressured to resign as a direct consequence of the policy.

Applicants have a two-year period to submit their claims, with the deadline set for 12 December 2026. The amount of compensation may differ depending on the impact experienced by each individual, but the guaranteed payment offers a measure of recognition and support for those affected.

Further details about the scheme and application process are publicly accessible on the government’s official website. This initiative represents an important step towards addressing the historical discrimination faced by LGBT service members in the UK Armed Forces

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