VETERANS SERVICE & UF PARTNER UPDATES

Fighting With Pride - LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme
If you were impacted by the BAN on LGBT personnel between 1967 and 2000 in any way, you may be eligible for financial recognition.

Two types of payments are available:

• Dismissed or Discharged Payment of £50,000 (based solely on the individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity)
• Impact Payment of £1,000 - £20,000 for those who experienced pain and suffering directly related to the Ban, decided by an Independent Panel

Apply here before 23:59 12^th December 2026: www.gov.uk/lgbt-veterans

This guide offers a slow and steady approach to completing the application for the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme, helping individuals progress at their own pace while ensuring it is submitted in time for the deadline in December 2026.
Access the guide here: FRS Application Guidance – Fighting With Pride PDF.

For advice, contact Fighting With Pride: The Armed Forces LGBTQ+ Charity or call the Age Scotland helpline at 0800 12 44 222.

Unforgotten Forces Resources
As we close our operations, all Unforgotten Forces guides and resources remain freely available, including veterans guide to later life, support for older LGBTQ+ veterans, directory leaflet, and our latest magazine. Copies can be ordered for free or downloaded digitally here: Veterans | Age Scotland

Free Coastal Retreats for Veterans in Cornwall
Free respite is available for serving and retired Armed Forces personnel at “The RV” in Falmouth, Cornwall - just minutes from the beach and town. Accommodation includes en-suite rooms and accessible apartments, with help-yourself breakfast provided. Book simply via email at info@lwfa.org.uk  - no criteria to explain, just a well-earned break.
More information can be found here: Coastal Breaks | Lest We Forget.

Have Your Say: Covenant Fund Collaboration Lab
The Covenant Fund has launched a new Collaboration Lab, inviting insights from across the Armed Forces Community to help shape future funding priorities. Share what’s working, where gaps remain, and how support could improve - whether through a local session or online.
Get involved and find out more: https://covenantfund.org.uk/collaboration-lab/

Centre for Evidence for the Armed Forces Community: Meet the Expert
Read the latest “Meet the Expert” feature highlighting Surgeon Lt Cdr Ruth Guest, a Royal Navy GP and researcher focusing on women’s health in the Armed Forces. Her work explores key issues such as menstrual and reproductive health, aiming to improve wellbeing, policy, and support for servicewomen across their careers.
Find out more: www.centreforevidence.org/news/20260518-meet-the-expert-surg-lt-cdr-ruth-guest

RESEARCH AND ENGAGEMENT

Participants Wanted for AF Genital Trauma and Psychosexual Experiences Research
The UK’s first large-scale study designed to understand the experiences and needs of ex-Servicemen with genital injuries, intimate scarring, or loss of function due to injury which impacts sexual activities. Findings will inform support to ex-Servicemen.

Participants for Reservist Study wanted
Matt Albrighton is undertaking his PhD research study aimed at the family members of Armed Forces Reservists. He is looking for families, individuals and organisations supporting veterans for this study.
Find out more here: https://sites.google.com/brookes.ac.uk/uk-afrf-research or email 19284254@brookes.ac.uk

Veteran Research Project Seeking Input
Support is requested for a new project exploring what helps veterans maintain good mental health after trauma, in partnership with the Ministry of Defence. The study will identify factors that support resilience, wellbeing, and successful transition, with input from a small veteran advisory group.
Interested in contributing? Contact simon.walker@glasgow.ac.uk or call 07780 002920.

Centre for Evidence for the Armed Forces Community
Interested in taking part in research? A range of studies are currently recruiting participants across the Armed Forces Community - browse opportunities and connect directly with researchers via team@centreforevidence.org