If you’ve suffered an injury or illness in the course of military service, our solicitors could help you make a claim under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS). At Irwin Mitchell, we specialise in helping armed forces personnel and veterans with AFCS and other military injury claims. Our dedicated team, including former service personnel, has extensive experience helping military members secure the compensation you deserve.
What is the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme?
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) was set up by the government to provide compensation to military personnel injured on or after 6 April 2005. Managed by Veterans UK, it uses a tariff system to award set payments for injuries caused by service.
Unlike a civil personal injury claim, seeking compensation through the AFCS means there’s no need to prove blame.
Who can make an AFCS claim?
You could claim through the AFCS regardless of whether you’re still serving, or a veteran. This applies not only to regular forces, but also to reservists or members of the Special Forces.
You may be able to make a claim if you’ve sustained an injury in the course of military service, including while:
- On operations
- Participating in service approved sports
- Training
- Exercising to maintain military fitness.
In addition, you can also make a claim if you have lost a loved one due to an incident that occurred while they were in service. According to the guidelines, those eligible include “someone with whom you are cohabiting in an exclusive and substantial relationship, with financial and wider dependence.
In certain circumstances you may be able to seek compensation through the AFCS as well as making a separate civil personal injury claim. Our lawyers can discuss this with you in a free initial consultation.
What type of injury does the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme cover?
The types of injuries AFCS covers, includes:
- Physical injuries - fractures, amputations, back injuries, burns, or hearing loss.
- Mental health conditions - anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that come from military service.
- Illnesses - illnesses that have developed or worsened because of exposure to hazardous environments or substances.
- Conditions arising from service-related activities - injuries that occurred during training or exercises, it also includes approved sporting activities.
- Death - if a family member has died because of their injury or illness.
How much compensation could I get from the AFCS?
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme pays awards as a lump sum based on the severity of your injury. The minimum award is £1,200, with a maximum lump sum award of £570,000 available.
You will also be entitled to a Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP) if you receive an award over £15,500. A GIP provides tax free monthly payments as a percentage of your final salary and is determined on the level of your AFCS award. You can arrange a free initial consultation with one of our military lawyers for advice on your case and how much compensation you may be able to claim.
What are the time limits for making an AFCS claim?
The AFCS covers injuries caused by service on or after 6 April 2005. The time limit for claiming through the AFCS is seven years from when you sustained your injury.
If you’re making a mental health claim (including PTSD) you can make a claim within seven years of first seeking medical help for your condition.
Why choose us?
We may be able to handle your AFCS claim on a no win no fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront and there is no cost to you if your claim is unsuccessful.
We have a dedicated team of military specialists including former service personnel. Our expert lawyers have an in-depth knowledge of the AFCS, with a proven track record of claiming through it.
You'll also have access to our team of Support and Rehabilitation Coordinators. The team are experts at identifying and helping you access the physical, psychological, and financial support.
Our offices are located around the UK. This means there'll always be a specialist AFCS specialist solicitor in your nearest office to help you with your claim.
Proven track record in AFCS claims
Expert lawyers with a service background
Links with support agencies to assist with rehabilitation support
In depth understanding of the AFCS
Call our experts FREE on:
0800 022 3321
Or we can call you back at a time of your choice
Phone lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year
