The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme will close at 23:59 on 12 December 2026, following a 24‑month application window, and there are no plans to extend the deadline. The scheme has been designed to minimise barriers to application. Applicants are not required to provide Service records and may apply on the basis of their testimony alone, ensuring that difficulties in accessing historical documentation do not prevent individuals from applying. All applications submitted before the closing date will continue to be processed in line with the scheme rules.

The Government is taking a proactive approach to ensure that all those affected by the historic ban are made aware of the scheme, including those who may not be engaged with established veterans’ networks or digital channels. Defence is working with a wide range of partners, including the Royal British Legion, Fighting with Pride, local authorities, the NHS, community groups, Veterans’ Commissioners, and other charities, supported by external communications specialists. A stakeholder communications pack has also been issued to partners to help extend the reach of messaging, and information is available on GOV.UK, alongside dedicated support for applicants.

A total of 1,839 individual payment cases have been progressed to a decision. Of the cases that have been appealed, 58 appeal cases have met the grounds for appeal, as defined in the scheme rules, and have therefore been reviewed by the Independent Appeal Board. As of 22 June 2026, including outcomes reached by the Appeals Board, 168 cases have not met the eligibility criteria set out in the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme rules.

The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme will close at 23:59 on 12 December 2026, following a 24‑month application window, and there are no plans to extend the deadline. The scheme has been designed to minimise barriers to application. Applicants are not required to provide Service records and may apply on the basis of their testimony alone, ensuring that difficulties in accessing historical documentation do not prevent individuals from applying. All applications submitted before the closing date will continue to be processed in line with the scheme rules.

The Government is taking a proactive approach to ensure that all those affected by the historic ban are made aware of the scheme, including those who may not be engaged with established veterans’ networks or digital channels. Defence is working with a wide range of partners, including the Royal British Legion, Fighting with Pride, local authorities, the NHS, community groups, Veterans’ Commissioners, and other charities, supported by external communications specialists. A stakeholder communications pack has also been issued to partners to help extend the reach of messaging, and information is available on GOV.UK, alongside dedicated support for applicants.

A total of 1,839 individual payment cases have been progressed to a decision. Of the cases that have been appealed, 58 appeal cases have met the grounds for appeal, as defined in the scheme rules, and have therefore been reviewed by the Independent Appeal Board. As of 22 June 2026, including outcomes reached by the Appeals Board, 168 cases have not met the eligibility criteria set out in the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme rules.

The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme will close at 23:59 on 12 December 2026, following a 24‑month application window, and there are no plans to extend the deadline. The scheme has been designed to minimise barriers to application. Applicants are not required to provide Service records and may apply on the basis of their testimony alone, ensuring that difficulties in accessing historical documentation do not prevent individuals from applying. All applications submitted before the closing date will continue to be processed in line with the scheme rules.

The Government is taking a proactive approach to ensure that all those affected by the historic ban are made aware of the scheme, including those who may not be engaged with established veterans’ networks or digital channels. Defence is working with a wide range of partners, including the Royal British Legion, Fighting with Pride, local authorities, the NHS, community groups, Veterans’ Commissioners, and other charities, supported by external communications specialists. A stakeholder communications pack has also been issued to partners to help extend the reach of messaging, and information is available on GOV.UK, alongside dedicated support for applicants.

A total of 1,839 individual payment cases have been progressed to a decision. Of the cases that have been appealed, 58 appeal cases have met the grounds for appeal, as defined in the scheme rules, and have therefore been reviewed by the Independent Appeal Board. As of 22 June 2026, including outcomes reached by the Appeals Board, 168 cases have not met the eligibility criteria set out in the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme rules.