Local News · Swindon
Swindon North MP urges local veterans to claim LGBT service recognition payments
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Swindon North MP Will Stone is calling on veterans impacted by the historic ban on LGBT personnel in the Armed Forces to apply for financial recognition before the upcoming deadline.
Swindon North MP Will Stone is urging local veterans who were affected by the historic ban on LGBT service in the UK Armed Forces to take action and apply for financial recognition. The scheme, which offers payments to those impacted by the policy enforced between 1967 and 2000, has a closing date of 12 December 2026.
The Financial Recognition Scheme was established to acknowledge the personal and professional impact experienced by service personnel who were discharged or treated unfairly due to their sexual orientation or gender identity during the period the ban was in force. Mr Stone has highlighted the importance of the scheme and is actively encouraging those eligible to come forward.
Speaking on the initiative, Mr Stone stated his support for the organisation Fighting With Pride, which works to improve the health and wellbeing of LGBT veterans, serving personnel, and their families. He said: "I'm raising awareness of the 12 December 2026 deadline for the Financial Recognition Scheme. We want to ensure every eligible veteran has the opportunity to benefit before the scheme closes."
The ban, which prohibited LGBT individuals from serving in the British military, remained in place for several decades before being overturned in 2000. Veterans affected by these historical policies are encouraged to review the criteria for the Financial Recognition Scheme to determine their eligibility for a payment. With the deadline set for late 2026, officials are keen to ensure that those who served and were subsequently impacted by these discriminatory practices receive the recognition and support they are entitled to.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Lifestyle · View original