Appeal to LGBTQ+ veterans as gay ban payout deadline nears

A leading LGBTQ+ veterans’ charity has warned that more than 1,000 former service personnel dismissed under the UK’s historic “gay ban” may miss out on compensation and restorative measures.

Fighting With Pride, which helped win reparations for those affected, says there are at least 1,000 “lost” veterans who have yet to come forward, with fewer than six months left to apply for payments of between £1,000 and £70,000.

The ban on LGBT people serving in the armed forces lasted until 2000. Many were subjected to invasive investigations, forced outings and dishonourable discharges that devastated careers and mental health, BBC reports.

Former RAF member Karen Usher, discharged after confiding in a chaplain, has applied for support under the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme. She learned about it on social media and worries that older and more isolated veterans, some of whom were jailed, remain unaware of their rights.

Pam Johnson, who joined the Women’s Royal Army Corps at 17, says her career ended after a love letter to another woman was discovered. She was interrogated, accused of spying, stripped of clearance and pushed into menial duties, then felt driven to buy herself out of her contract. She applied for restorative measures in August 2025 and is waiting for a decision.

The Ministry of Defence says it “deeply regrets” the past treatment of LGBT personnel and is working with councils, the NHS and charities to reach those affected. Alongside financial redress, veterans can seek restoration of rank, return of medals and berets, and the Etherton Ribbon.

Fighting With Pride urges anyone who suffered under the ban to seek help quickly, stressing full confidentiality. Veterans and allies who want to rebuild supportive professional networks and connect with LGBT‑inclusive employers can also benefit from joining platforms such as myGwork, where signing up opens access to a wider community and practical resources.