Compensation Announced: LGBT+ Veterans in Cornwall to Receive Up to £70,000

Published On: 13 December 2024Last Updated: 13 December 2024By CornishStuff

LGBT+ veterans in Cornwall are set to receive financial recognition following an announcement by the Labour Government. The LGBT+ Financial Recognition Scheme will provide up to £70,000 to those affected by the ban on LGBT+ personnel serving in the armed forces between 1967 and 2000.

Supporting Veterans with Financial Recognition

The Government has allocated a total of £75 million to this scheme, surpassing the recommendations of Lord Etherton’s Review into the treatment of LGBT+ veterans. The scheme aims to address the historic wrongs faced by many veterans, acknowledging the adversity they endured and recognising their contributions to national defence.

Applications for the Financial Recognition Scheme opened today, 13th December 2024, marking significant progress towards implementing the review’s findings. Only seven recommendations from the Etherton Review remain outstanding, with the Ministry of Defence aiming to deliver these by 2025.

Defence Secretary John Healey described the mistreatment of LGBT veterans as “a moral stain on our nation,” adding:

“We have listened to veterans and we are increasing the funding available for financial recognition beyond that recommended by Lord Etherton. We will continue to deliver against the recommendations set out in the Etherton review and support our veterans as we work to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve, and have served.”

South East Cornwall MP Highlights Local Impact

Anna Gelderd, Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, spoke during a debate on 12th December to emphasise the importance of the scheme for her constituency. She highlighted the role of South East Cornwall in national defence and praised the resilience of LGBT+ veterans:

“I am immensely grateful and proud of our serving LGBT+ personnel and veterans from South East Cornwall, and across the nation. Their resilience, despite the adversity they faced, is a testament to their strength and dedication to keeping us safe.”

Gelderd also acknowledged the work of charities like Fighting with Pride in helping LGBT+ veterans seek justice:

“Financial recognition for LGBT+ veterans impacted by the cruel ban is an important step that will help to address the wrongs of the past for many veterans in South East Cornwall. The announcement will help veterans rebuild their lives and get the resolution they need, while contributing to making our armed forces more tolerant and welcoming to all.”

Progress on Etherton Review Recommendations

In addition to financial recognition, veterans dismissed or discharged due to their sexual orientation or gender identity can now apply to have their rank restored and discharge reason amended. The Labour Government has pledged to implement the remaining recommendations of the Etherton Review next year, with collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, other Government departments, and key stakeholders.

This announcement builds on efforts initiated by the previous Government and demonstrates a commitment to supporting LGBT+ veterans who faced discrimination during their service.