Denbighshire residents asked to help find veterans still owed justice
Denbighshire County Council is supporting Fighting With Pride's #BattleForLostVeterans2026 campaign and encouraging local residents, veterans' groups and community organisations to help reach people affected by the historic ban on LGBTQ+ personnel serving openly in the Armed Forces before 2000.
Thousands of service personnel were dismissed, discharged or forced to hide their identity during their military careers. Eligible veterans may now be entitled to financial reparations of up to £70,000, as well as other restorative measures.
Although many veterans have already come forward, Fighting With Pride estimates that around 1,000 eligible veterans remain unaware of, or have not yet applied to, the scheme. The deadline for applications is 12 December 2026.
The council is encouraging anyone who may be eligible, or who knows someone who could be affected, to share information about the campaign and help ensure veterans receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Councillor Julie Matthews, Deputy Leader of the council, and Denbighshire’s Armed Forces Champion said, "Veterans have made significant sacrifices in service to their country and it is important that those who were treated unfairly because of their sexual orientation or gender identity are given the opportunity to access the support and recognition they deserve.
"We encourage residents, community groups and veterans' organisations across Denbighshire to help spread awareness of this campaign. By sharing this information, we can help ensure that anyone who may be eligible for reparations is aware of the support available to them before the application deadline."
Many individuals may no longer identify as LGBTQ+, may not consider themselves part of the veteran community, or may find it difficult to revisit their experiences. Community awareness is therefore vital in helping reach those who may still be owed justice.
For more information and support, visit the Fighting With Pride reparations webpage - https://www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/reparations/#
Or to apply visit www.gov.uk/lgbt-veterans