UK Launches £70,000 Compensation for LGBT Veterans Facing Historical Discrimination
December 11, 2024
Importantly, the compensation payments will be exempt from income tax and means-tested benefits, ensuring veterans receive the full amount.
Following an independent review, the Labour government increased the compensation fund by 50%, raising it to £75 million to address the distress caused by the military's ban.
Defense Secretary John Healey described the historical treatment of LGBT veterans as a 'moral stain' on the nation, underscoring the government's commitment to rectify these injustices.
A review revealed numerous instances of homophobia and mistreatment, including degrading treatment and intrusive investigations of veterans.
The compensation scheme allows affected individuals to claim £50,000 each, a figure higher than initially anticipated, as part of efforts to 'repair historical wrongs.'
The UK government has launched a compensation program aimed at military veterans who faced discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, offering up to £70,000 ($89,300).
Veterans dismissed for their sexual orientation will receive a base compensation of £50,000, with additional payments of up to £20,000 for those who experienced negative impacts during their service from 1967 to 2000.
This initiative responds to past policies that forced LGBT personnel out of the military before 2000, branding them unfit to serve and subjecting them to severe investigations.
Eligible veterans can also apply for the restoration of their military rank and amendments to their discharge reasons, with priority given to terminally ill veterans.
Jones emphasized the emotional toll of witnessing colleagues being investigated and expressed a commitment to supporting those affected by past injustices.
Members of Parliament are set to discuss the proposed compensation scheme in the House of Commons on December 12, 2024.
Despite the government's efforts, advocates, including Craig Jones from the charity Fighting with Pride, have criticized the compensation amounts as inadequate compared to the suffering endured by service members.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Dec 11, 2024
UK veterans fired over sexuality to get £70,000 in compensation
The Independent • Dec 11, 2024
LGBT veterans to receive £70,000 for historic mistreatment in armed forces