LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme Claims

If you were affected by the ban against LGBT service personnel, you may be entitled to a recognition payment under the Financial Recognition Scheme (FRS).

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Why choose Irwin Mitchell to make a claim through the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme?

It’s important to submit your application with as much detail and supporting evidence as possible. There are limited grounds for appeal, with strict time limits, so having specialist advice from the beginning will increase your chances of success. We can also help if you have had an application rejected.

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

Our specialist military legal team has over 25 years’ experience advising and supporting veterans and serving members of the armed forces. Our team includes lawyers who have served in the armed forces, which gives us a unique insight into the culture and life in the military.

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Ready to speak to an expert?

Here, you can browse our specialists in claims for LGBT service personnel, find out more about their previous cases and, whenever you’re ready, reach out to them to get the support you need.

Andrew Buckham

National Head of Military - Partner

Find out more

Meet our experts

Andrew Buckham

National Head of Military - Partner

Find out more

Speak to a Specialist

We are here to help you understand your rights and the support you need. Complete our enquiry form and one of our experts will contact you by the next working day.

Alternatively, you can call us now.

Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (Excluding Public Holidays).

0800 0223 321

Frequently Asked Questions

Find the answers you need to feel confident about making an LGBT FRS claim with the help of our expert military solicitors at Irwin Mitchell.

How can our military solicitors help you or a loved one make an LGBT FRS claim?

If you were affected by the ban or you know someone who was, we are here to help. Our caring and professional experts will:

Offer a free first consultation to find out whether you can make a claim
Offer expert advice from start to finish of your claim
Support you with completing the forms to make your application to the FRS.

How do I make a claim with the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme?

You can apply to the FRS using:

The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme App
An official LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme hard copy application form.

It’s important that the forms are completed with as much detail as possible and supported by documents or evidence for the type of payment for which you apply.

If you want to rely on the fact that you have a medical condition, you will also need to provide evidence from an appropriately qualified medical expert.

We can help you to gather all the documents and evidence you need to submit with your application to give you the best chance of making a successful claim.

How much could I claim through the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme?

The government has set aside £75 million for all recognition payments made to veterans affected by the ban.

You may be entitled to an Impact Payment of up to £20,000, depending on your circumstances. The level of payment will depend on what happened during your service, and not after your service ended.

In addition, if you were formally dismissed or discharged because of your actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, you may be entitled to a payment of £50,000.

Can I claim through the LGBT FRS on behalf of someone else?

Yes, in certain circumstances, you can make a claim on behalf of someone else.

Applicants who lack capacity

We understand that everyone’s situation is different, which is why we offer a wide range of services to support you and your loved ones.

The experienced solicitors in our Court of Protection team are here to help you make a claim on behalf of a loved one who hasn't got the mental capacity to claim on their own.

Applicants who are terminally ill

If the person you want to claim for is terminally ill, the FRS will prioritise your application. You will have the opportunity to declare your diagnosis and submit evidence to support this when you make your application.

We are here to make this process as easy as possible for you. Our in-house team of specialist Wills solicitors can make sure your Estate is protected.

Contact our military claims team to discuss the possibility of claiming on behalf of a loved one.

Our commitment to you

Our experts always start by listening, so we understand what matters most from day one.

01
Clear legal guidance
You will always get straightforward, honest advice, with regular updates to keep you clear on the way forward.
02
Specialist knowledge
A wide-ranging team of trusted specialists who understand what it takes to protect your future, your family or your business.
03
Your needs first
Whether you’re navigating complex personal situations or business decisions, we take the time to understand your world and what’s at stake.

Irwin Mitchell Scotland

Scottish cases will be handled by the Scottish law firm with which we are associated, Irwin Mitchell Scotland LLP. The law relating to funding is different in Scotland and you will receive separate advice about what that means as well as a separate funding agreement.