Hundreds apply to compensation scheme set up after armed forces LGBT ban

More than 1,200 Scots have applied for payments from a compensation scheme set up to help members of the military impacted by a ban on LGBT personnel serving in the forces.

The Scottish Government confirmed the figure as it vowed to act to ensure those who suffered under the ban – which was in place until 2000 – get “every penny they are entitled to”.

It comes after the UK Government announced in December last year that it was setting up the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme, with up to £75m set aside for payments.

These could see former services personnel who were impacted by the ban receive up to £70,000 each.

With veterans also potentially able to receive financial help through the council tax reduction scheme, Finance Secretary Shona Robison said regulations will be changed to ensure any compensation payments do not affect eligibility for this.

Robison said: “As we mark 25 years since the lifting of the ban on LGBT people serving in the armed forces, it is important to recognise the hardship that so many faced, with widespread homophobic bullying and harassment.

“Nothing will make up for the difficulties that LGBT veterans faced, however our action will ensure those in Scotland receive every penny that they are entitled to.”

Under the UK Government scheme, those who were dismissed or discharged from the armed forces because of their sexual orientation or gender identity could receive £50,000 in compensation.

Former service personnel who suffered harassment, intrusive investigations or even imprisonment could also receive payments of up to £20,000.

Peter Gibson, chief executive of Fighting with Pride, said it had “campaigned for justice for LGBTQ+ veterans for many years, helping to secure reparations and financial recognition of their horrendous treatment prior to 2000”.

He added: “As we slowly see the UK Government deal with those financial payments, protected from benefit and taxation impact, it is wonderful to see the Scottish Government taking action to ensure other benefits such as council tax benefit is also protected too.

“We continue to seek out veterans who were discharged or dismissed from the military to support them, and this news is one more step towards helping those in Scotland.”