A financial support scheme that aims to help those impacted by the historic policy of banning Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender (LGBT) people from serving in the Armed Forces, is now open for applications.
To be eligible for a Financial Recognition Payment, you must have:
- served in HM Armed Forces between 27 July 1967 and 11 January 2000
- been affected by the Ban on LGBT personnel serving in HM Armed Forces.
There are two types of Financial Recognition Payments:
LGBT Dismissed or Discharged Payment. A payment for those who were dismissed or administratively discharged, including Officers who were ordered or instructed to resign or retire by their respective Service Board, solely on the basis of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity during the Ban.
LGBT Impact Payment. A payment that reflects the personal impact which the Ban had on applicants during the period of their service in HM Armed Forces.
Applications for the scheme close on Saturday 12 December 2026 and more information can be found here. LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme guide: How to apply for a Financial Recognition Payment – GOV.UK
At a full Council meeting on 15 July 2026, Knowsley Council formally acknowledged the injustices experienced by LGBT veterans arising from the UK Armed Forces Ban on Homosexuals serving in the military from 1967 to 2000. It agreed a Notice of Motion welcoming the introduction of the LGBT Restorative Justice for Veterans’ Financial Recognition Scheme.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council commented: “I was pleased to support the Notice of Motion brought to the Council meeting last month and am really encouraged that those people impacted by the historic ban on LGBT individuals in the Armed Forces, can now seek additional support. I would urge anyone who had been impacted to find out more about what help is available without delay.”