Our host, Lewis Quarmby speaks to Royal Air Force veteran, Carl Austin-Behan, about his lived experience of the ban on LGBT personnel in the armed forces. They were joined by Peter Gibson, Chief Executive of Fighting With Pride, and Sarah Jones from our employee network IM Equal.
On 12 December 2024, the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme made recognition payments available to those who served in the Armed Forces between 27 July 1967 and 11 January 2000 and were affected by the ban.
The deadline for applications is 12 December 2026. If you don’t apply in time you’ll lose your right to a payment under the scheme.
Together our guests discussed:
The impact of the LGBT ban and the support that’s available to those who were affected by it.
Whether the Financial Recognition Scheme goes far enough.
The potential pitfalls of making an application under the scheme and the importance of seeking legal advice.
Where to get support to make an application, including support for elderly claimants and those who lack capacity.
Drawing on their personal experiences, they shared touching stories and lots of useful information to help those seeking to apply for a recognition payment. The discussion contains references to themes that some individuals may find distressing.
If you were impacted by the ban, our expert Military team is here to help you navigate the Financial Recognition Scheme. Further support and resources are available from the LGBT+ Veterans charity, Fighting With Pride.