Collective call for Government to increase cap on LGBT veteran compensation

Walking With The Wounded CEO, Tony Hulton, is one of a number of charity leaders throughout the UK who have signed an open letter to the Prime Minister, calling for the Government to increase the cap on LGBT veteran compensation.

Until 2000, members of the LGBT community were banned from entering the UK Armed Forces. Of those that did join the forces whilst concealing their sexuality, many were subjected to unfair treatment, forcibly outed to friends and family, wrongfully imprisoned, suffered a loss of earnings and in some cases, faced unfair dismissal. Since the ban was lifted, those affected have fought for fair treatment and compensation, and that fight is now being led by LGBT Military charity, Fighting With Pride.

On Wednesday 23 October 2024, Fighting With Pride delivered an open letter to Prime Minister Kier Starmer, calling for the Government to review the compensation scheme, aiming to bring justice to those affected by the ban and ensuring adequate and fair compensation is paid.

Speaking on the importance of the call to Government, Tony Hulton, CEO at Walking With The Wounded, said: “The treatment that members of the LGBT+ community faced under the ban was unacceptable, and they deserve to be compensated for the damage caused to their lives. By coming together with other charities to call on the Government to act, it is hoped that we can give a voice to those who were previously silenced and highlight to them that they are not alone in their fight for justice.”

Anna Tydeman, Head of People & Culture at WWTW, added: “It is deeply saddening that members of the LGBT+ community were willing to serve their country and were met with discrimination and abuse, simply for being themselves. At Walking With The Wounded, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive charity and employer, providing support to all veterans regardless of their background. We know that this call is just one part of the puzzle when it comes to justice and inclusivity, so we will continue our work with organisations such as Fighting With Pride to ensure we are doing all we can to support veterans from the LGBT community.”