In our latest podcast, the Army Benevolent Fund marks the 25th anniversary of lifting the ban on gay people serving in the British Armed Forces.  

In January 2000, the ban was lifted, following a European Court of Human Rights ruling in 1999. Today’s situation is very different, but this is an opportunity to reflect on the difficulties experienced by some, who may find themselves in need of support from the ABF today.  

Joining host, Harry Bucknall to discuss this milestone anniversary during LBGT+ History Month are guests: Ed Hall, Chair of Fighting With Pride; Brigadier Clare Phillips CBE, Deputy Military Secretary and Chair of the Army LGBT+ Network; and Guardsman Wez Guren, serving with the 1st Battalion, the Irish Guards.  

Reflecting on her experiences serving before the ban ended, Brigadier Clare Phillips shares how she had to hide her identity, even keeping a fake boyfriend’s photo to avoid suspicion. Clare felt that “…I was betraying those people who I had signed on the dotted line to say I would fight and die alongside, but yet I wasn’t able to share my whole authentic self with.” 

Ed Hall discusses his role in challenging the ban in the 1990s and how LGBT+ personnel like him, along with colleagues and friends, faced investigations, interrogations, and wrongful dismissals.  

Since the ban was lifted, there has been a gradual shift in attitudes, which has helped make the policy a reality. Guardsman Wez Guren, serving in the Irish Guards since 2019, shares his positive experiences of being openly gay in today’s Army. 

Wez says: “I’ve never had any direct issues in any way being openly gay. Now in my own battalion, I can bring my partner here and it’s just so normalised.” 

Ed describes the impact of the Government’s 2023 Etherton Review. This documented the injustices faced by LGBT personnel, and has led to the restoring of military ranks and pensions to those who were dismissed, as well as financial reparations.  

Looking ahead, Wez and Clare stress that the visibility and representation of LBGT+ soldiers and veterans is crucial for attracting young people to join the military. A strong and diverse Army is needed now more than ever, to defend our freedom. 

Clare says: “Inclusion is about allowing talent to thrive, leadership to flourish, and integrity to prevail. And that’s the Army that Wez and I represent today, so incredibly proudly. LGBT+ service personnel are not defined by their sexual orientation or their gender identity. They’re defined by their service to our country. And that’s what matters.” 

The Army Benevolent Fund is keen to highlight that it is here for all for all soldiers, veterans and their families. We have funded one of Fighting with Pride’s veterans’ community workers, who helps those who faced discrimination and dishonourable discharge and are in need today. Thanking the ABF, Ed explains: “Some may have lost their careers, in circumstances which will stay with them forever and which have had lifelong impacts on their mental health, housing, and work. Having a friendly and understanding face that can act as their access into the service charities is hugely important.” 

Thank you to all our guests on this month’s podcast hosted by Harry Bucknall, which is available here.