Wider Services And Support Available To UK Armed Forces And Veterans

Defence Business Services, on behalf of the MOD, is responsible for delivering a range of services and support for UK Armed Forces, veterans and their families.

Summary guidance on each service can be found within this document. If you require additional assistance or advice, please contact our helpline number 0808 1914 2 18 or email [email protected]

Restorative measures including LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme

Online guidance for LGBT veterans wishing to apply for any of the restorative measures is now available.

LGBT veterans: support and next steps

Please note, the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme is not a compensation scheme. The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme and War Pension Scheme have no relationship or are connected in any way to the LGBT FR Scheme.

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) compensates for any injury, illness or death which was caused or made worse by service on or after 6 April 2005.

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)

War Pension Scheme

The War Pension Scheme (WPS) compensates for any injury, illness or death which was caused or aggravated by service before 6 April 2005.

War Pension Scheme (WPS)

Armed Forces Pensions

When a member of the armed forces reaches their retirement age, providing they have qualified for an occupational pension, they receive one of the most generous pensions available in the UK. This fairly reflects the unique sacrifice they have provided their country throughout their career. All members of the armed forces are automatically enrolled into the Armed Forces Pension Scheme. Unlike all other public schemes, members pay 0% in contributions each month. The scheme is unfunded and paid from the public purse.

Armed forces pensions

Welfare support

The Veterans Welfare Service (VWS) provides information, guidance and support to veterans and their families, as well as those supporting veterans through a network of case managers across the UK and Republic of Ireland. We work with appropriate organisations in the single Services, Defence, wider UK Government, the Devolved Administrations, local authorities and charities to ensure clients receive the help they need from the appropriate provider.

Veterans Welfare Service

Respect and recognition

The Ministry of Defence Medal Office (MODMO) issues medals to currently serving members of the armed forces, veterans and MOD employees. You can apply for a medal if you meet the criteria.

Medal Form

You can apply for or replace an armed forces veterans badge. You can get a veterans badge for regular or reserve service in any of the UK armed forces. There’s no fee if you’re applying for your first veterans badge or if you’re replacing it for the first time.

Apply for a medal or Veterans badge

An HM Armed Forces Veteran Card is a way to prove that you served in the UK armed forces. The card can make it quicker and easier to apply for support as a veteran. It’s free to apply.

Veterans Card

Enquiry Centre and armed forces pensions enquiries

The Ministry of Defence’s veterans helpline provides assistance on many issues including AFCS, WPS, benefits, housing and welfare whilst the Joint Personnel Administration Centre (JPAC) provides assistance regarding armed forces pensions.