Fighting With Pride has launched a new campaign to find and support LGBT+ veterans who may still be unaware of the help, recognition and community now available to them.
The charity believes there are more than 1,000 former service personnel affected by the historic ban on LGBT people serving in the Armed Forces who remain disconnected from support networks or have yet to come forward for support.
Backed by funding from the Veterans' Foundation, Fighting With Pride has spent recent years connecting isolated veterans with friendship, practical assistance and a renewed sense of belonging, while also campaigning for greater recognition and justice for those affected by the ban.
Thousands of LGBT+ personnel served their country with courage and dedication, yet many experienced discrimination, investigations, dismissal and lasting personal trauma simply because of who they were. The ban on LGBT people serving in the UK Armed Forces remained in place until 2000.
Fighting With Pride Chief Executive Peter Gibson said: "We know many felt so shunned and hurt by their treatment that they distanced themselves from both the military and the LGBTQ+ communities.
"We believe there are still many veterans who remain disconnected from support services and from the wider military community. By encouraging people to share information about the help available, we hope to reach those who may have been left behind."
The campaign comes at an important time. With less than six months remaining to apply to the Government's LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme, eligible veterans may also be entitled to financial compensation of up to £70,000, as well as restorative measures including the return of medals and berets, restoration of rank and formal recognition of their service.
Following the Government's historic apology for the ban, Fighting With Pride continues to help veterans access welfare support, housing advice, mental health services and opportunities to reconnect with the military family many felt they had lost.
Anyone who believes they may be eligible, or who knows someone who could benefit from support, is encouraged to contact Fighting With Pride in confidence via www.fightingwithpride.org.uk.
If you would like to help support veterans, like those supported by Fighting With Pride, sign up to the Veterans' Lottery:
