Around 1,000 LGBT veterans are urged to claim compensation for mistreatment under the historic ‘gay ban’ in the armed forces, which lasted from 1967 to 2000. The deadline for applications is December 12, and many eligible veterans have yet to come forward, particularly from regions like the North East and Yorkshire. This compensation scheme offers £50,000 for discharge payments and up to £20,000 for additional impacts, but participation rates have been unexpectedly low.
The charity Fighting With Pride has launched a campaign to locate these veterans, highlighting that only a small fraction have applied since the campaign began. The lack of claims is concerning, especially among women veterans, who reported higher instances of mistreatment but are underrepresented in the claims process. The charity is committed to ensuring that every eligible veteran receives the recognition and compensation they deserve.
Dawn Loynes, a Royal Navy veteran, has shared her story to encourage others to come forward, emphasizing the emotional challenges of revisiting past traumas. The Ministry of Defence has expressed regret over the treatment of LGBT personnel and is actively promoting the compensation scheme to ensure that veterans are aware of their rights and the support available.
With nearly £20 million of the £75 million fund still unclaimed, the urgency for veterans to act is critical. The government and charities are working together to ensure that no veteran is left behind in this important redress initiative, aiming to restore dignity and pride to those who served under discriminatory policies.
Source: LBC News
