Compensation totaling over £31 million has been distributed to 949 LGBTQ veterans by the government as part of efforts to address the impact of the historical ban on gay individuals serving in the armed forces.
The Ministry of Defence has enhanced its payments team and implemented an automated processing system to expedite applications to the Financial Recognition Scheme.
The 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 experienced harassment, bullying, involuntary outing, and even imprisonment due to their sexual orientation.
Louise Sandher-Jones MP, Minister for Veterans and People, expressed the government’s commitment to rectifying the past mistreatment of LGBTQ personnel, stating, “The way that LGBT personnel were treated between 1967 and 2000 was shameful.”
She added, “It is crucial that we offer swift support, which is why we have doubled the resources allocated to the Financial Recognition Scheme. We will continue to assist our veterans as we strive to honor our commitment to those who have served.”
The scheme acknowledges the unjust treatment of LGBTQ personnel between 1967 and 2000 and is set to conclude in December 2026, urging more LGBTQ veterans to step forward. Priority is being given to elderly applicants, individuals with serious health issues, and those facing significant financial challenges.
The Mirror has long supported Fighting With Pride’s advocacy for LGBTQ veterans to receive the recognition, support, and compensation they deserve.
Claire Ashton, a transgender woman who served as a gunner in the Royal Artillery and faced bullying as early as 1969 during basic training, described the payments as the “culmination of a lengthy journey.” She emphasized the significance of the government and Ministry of Defence acknowledging their wrongdoing.
Earlier this year, King Charles laid flowers at a new memorial honoring LGBTQ+ armed forces veterans to acknowledge those affected by the ban. Attendees, including Ms. Ashton, appreciated the royal presence, considering it a special and validating moment for many veterans.
Fighting With Pride, the LGBTQ+ Armed Forces charity, commended the progress but emphasized the need for further actions. Chief Executive Peter Gibson highlighted the necessity to expedite Impact Panel decisions, address concerns of constructively dismissed veterans, and include pre-1967 dismissals in reparations.
Gibson stated, “The Government must enhance their efforts and invest in a robust publicity campaign to ensure awareness; otherwise, thousands could miss out.”
