Government moves to expedite support for LGBTQ+ veterans
– 1 min read
LGBTQ+ veterans who were dismissed, discharged or mistreated due to their sexuality while serving in the Armed Forces between 1967 and 2000 will now receive financial support more swiftly, the UK Government has announced.
The Ministry of Defence has announced an expansion of the team handling applications, with five additional staff members nearly doubling the current workforce. This move aims to accelerate the processing of applications and the delivery of payments to affected veterans.
To further streamline the process, the Government is implementing two major improvements:
- An automated payment system is currently under development, designed to reduce administrative delays and ensure accurate, timely disbursement of funds once applications are approved.
- Independent Panel sittings will increase from one to two per week, expediting the review of complex cases - particularly those involving claims of up to £20,000 for pain and suffering resulting from the Ban, including harassment, invasive investigations, and imprisonment.
These measures form part of the Government’s commitment to fully implement the recommendations of Lord Etherton’s review. As of July 2025, 42 of the 49 recommendations have been completed, with the remaining two on track for completion by year’s end.
Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns MP, stated:
“We deeply regret the treatment of LGBT personnel between 1967 and 2000, which was wholly unacceptable.
"We are prioritising payments to elderly veterans and those with serious health conditions to ensure they receive support as quickly as possible.
"By increasing staff, introducing automated systems, and doubling panel reviews, we are taking decisive action to ensure LGBT veterans receive the recognition they deserve.”
The financial recognition scheme, launched in December 2024, is part of a broader effort to acknowledge the sacrifices and injustices endured by LGBTQ+ service members. In addition to financial compensation, the scheme offers other forms of redress, including the restoration of rank and formal letters of apology.
All veterans affected by the Ban are encouraged to consult the guidance and apply via the Veterans of the LGBT Ban: Financial Recognition Scheme page on GOV.UK.
