Our Chief Executive, Peter Gibson, joined Irwin Mitchell host, Lewis Quarmby to discuss the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme. They were joined by Royal Air Force veteran, Carl Austin-Behan who shared his lived experience of the ban on LGBT personnel in the armed forces, and Sarah Jones from Irwin Mitchell’s 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, Irwin Mitchell’s expert Military team can help you navigate the Financial Recognition Scheme.

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