A new report published on 1st June shines a light on the life long impact of the ‘gay ban’ in the Armed Forces. The study carried out by Northumbria University was carried out on behalf of specialist LGBT+ military charity Fighting with Pride (FWP) and has found that thousands of ex-service people are paying the price of the policy both mentally and economically. The ban existed until 2000.
- 86% of LGBT+ veterans felt dismissal for sexual orientation or gender identity from the Armed Forces affected their mental health
- 74% of those dismissed said their finances have been affected.
Today’s new study ahead of the government’s review publication has triggered renewed calls for a remedy to the harm caused by the ban. This means:
- An apology on behalf of the Nation, by the Prime Minister
- Wiping criminal records for those criminalised for sexual orientation and other measures to remove the shame experienced by LGBT+ Veterans and celebrate their service
- Compensation for serious lifelong harm to LGBT+ veterans in the region of £100,000 per person. This is in line with the Windrush and Tainted Blood schemes
- Payment for loss of pensions is complex and must be assessed and redressed fairly to reflect individual circumstances
- Develop the specialist mental health services to address the trauma experienced by LGBT+ Veterans.
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