Veterans wronged by Armed Forces LGBT ban urged to come forward
The Mayor of Wirral is backing a national campaign to encourage Armed Forces veterans affected by the Ministry of Defence's LGBT ban between 1967 and 2000 to apply for support and recognition before the application deadline expires on 12 December 2026.
Cllr Mary Jordan has lent her voice to the campaign which follows on from the Government’s formal apology for the historic policy – and their introduction of schemes aimed at providing redress for those affected.
For many years, dedicated service personnel were forced to hide who they were simply because of their sexual orientation. Many saw their careers cut short and experienced harassment, invasive investigations, disciplinary action, dismissal, discharge from service and, in some cases, imprisonment.
With just six weeks remaining until the deadline on 12 December 2026, I urge anyone who may have been affected to come forward and explore the support available. I also encourage friends, family members and colleagues to share this information with anyone who may be eligible.
We cannot change what happened, but one conversation, one shared social media post or one recommendation could help someone receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Support is available through two government schemes:
- The Financial Recognition Scheme, which offers payments of up to £70,000.
- The Non-Financial Restorative Measures Scheme, which provides a range of measures including an official letter of apology, the return of military items such as berets, the removal of dishonour associated with discharges, and participation in a formal service ceremony.
Anyone who believes they may have been affected, or who knows someone who might have been, is encouraged to find out about the support available and how to apply.
Confidential support is available from Fighting with Pride, The Royal British Legion and MOD Veterans Services, which can provide guidance on the schemes and help individuals through the application process.
Since the schemes launched in December 2024, around 2,000 veterans have received payments. The Government is continuing its efforts to ensure that as many eligible veterans as possible are aware of the schemes before applications close on 12 December 2026.
For more information, visit affectedbytheban.campaign.gov.uk.
