We want to update our community on an important development.
Following the launch of the judicial review against the Ministry of Defence on the terms of the Financial Recognition Scheme, Fighting With Pride has been formally named as an “interested party”. After careful consideration, our trustees have unanimously agreed that we will fully participate in the proceedings. As an interested party, Fighting With Pride will have a direct opportunity and formal role in assisting the court to understand the context of the cases.
This judicial review concerns those who were forced to resign under duress from the Armed Forces and who are currently excluded from the scheme. We believe it is right that the court hears, in full, the lived experience of those affected. We intend to use our knowledge of the ban and its consequences to support the applications brought by Mark and Steve, and to assist the court with as much relevant evidence as possible.
This has not been a decision taken lightly. The trustees have considered the financial implications, the potential risks to the charity, and the importance of maintaining the relationships that allow us to operate effectively. In the end, the conclusion was straightforward.
Our purpose is to ensure that every LGBTQ+ veteran experiences dignity, belonging and equal opportunity. Supporting this action sits squarely within that mission.
Both trustees and the executive team have been closely involved with the lawyers in preparing for this step. Over the last 18 months, we have held discussions with a number of law firms to identify those prepared to support our community, including those already known to many of you through their continuing work supporting veterans under the scheme through Fighting With Pride. We are now in the process of finalising our own legal representation and will confirm details shortly. Alongside this, we continue to work closely with Irwin Mitchell, who are bringing the judicial review, and we remain in regular contact with the Royal British Legion, whose advice and support have been invaluable.
How You Can Help
A key part of our role will be to provide evidence to the court on the impact of the ban. Over the coming weeks, we will be asking for your help in building that picture.
Many of you have already shared your experiences with us. We are very grateful for that, and we will be in touch about how those accounts may assist. For others, there will be an opportunity to contribute. This is about ensuring that the reality of what happened is properly understood by the court.
The judicial review itself is being funded through a crowdfunding campaign run by the Good Law Project. If you are in a position to contribute, it would be appreciated.
Click here to find details of the crowdfunder
We will continue to share updates through our usual channels. We will also be holding a community town hall on 12 May, where we will set out the next steps and take questions. (Register for the Town Hall)
Community Dedication Event – 20 June
We are very much looking forward to welcoming many of you to our Community Dedication Event at the National Memorial Arboretum on 20 June.
If you have not yet registered, please do so. It promises to be a significant moment for our community.
This event would not be possible without the generous support of the Royal British Legion, who have been strong and consistent supporters of our work. We are grateful for their commitment to making the day a success.
The Final Phase of the Financial Recognition Scheme
The Financial Recognition Scheme closes on 12 December 2026. That leaves a limited window to reach those who have not yet come forward.
We are stepping up our efforts over the coming months with a focused campaign to raise awareness of the scheme and ensure that those eligible understand how to apply. There are still veterans out there who do not know this exists, or who have not yet felt able to engage.
Our aim is simple. No one should be left behind.
Peter Gibson
Chief Executive Officer
Fighting With Pride
