February is LGBTQ+ History Month, which gives us the opportunity to reflect on the significant contributions to the Army made by LGBTQ+ service personnel. It also allows us to consider the difficulties experienced by some; particularly those who were impacted by the ban on gay people serving in the British Armed Forces, and who may find themselves in need of support from the ABF today.
Hundreds of LBGTQ+ veterans endured completely unacceptable and highly regrettable treatment prior to the ban being lifted in 2000, and a number continue to live with the impact of discrimination, loss of career and, in some cases, dishonourable discharge.
To support this important community, the ABF is proud to provide funding for Fighting With Pride, which helps veterans rebuild confidence, reclaim their identity, and access services they may have avoided for years due to past experiences.
Our latest grant of £40,000 will help Fighting With Pride fund a new support worker in the North of England. This role will enable face-to-face assistance to Army veterans who experienced discrimination or discharge under the ban, connecting them with trusted services, from mental health and wellbeing support to safeguarding and financial advice, ensuring they receive joined up, consistent care, and are not left to navigate complex systems alone.
The support worker also can assist with rebuilding community, through signposting café drop‑ins, regional Pride events, and peer-to-peer connections.
Peter Gibson, Chief Executive Officer at Fighting With Pride, said:
“We are delighted to receive this invaluable support from ABF which will enable us to replenish our direct LGBTQ+ Veteran support across the North of England. This funding strengthens our continuing relationship with ABF, a key strategic partner in the Armed Forces charity community, announcing this during LGBT+ History months clearly helps demonstrate how far the Armed Forces community has progressed since 2000.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer at the Army Benevolent Fund, added:
“Fighting With Pride provides vital support to veterans who were treated unjustly and are still living with the consequences today. Its work ensures that LGBTQ+ members of the Army family are heard, understood and able to access the help they need. Our funding will strengthen this support and ensure more veterans can receive the help they deserve.”