Beyond Service: Discover Support Networks for LGBTQ+ and BAME Veterans in the UK
As the UK continues to celebrate Black History Month, there’s an opportunity to widen the lens of inclusion, to recognise those who live at the intersection of identities: LGBTQ+, Black, Asian and minority ethnic, and veteran. For many, these aren’t separate boxes, they’re overlapping experiences lived every day. Their stories are powerful, often under-told, and vital to the full picture of military life and belonging.
The Journey of LGBTQ+ Rights in the British Armed Forces
Until 12 January 2000, LGBTQ+ people were banned from serving openly in the UK Armed Forces. Thousands lost careers, pensions, and community, their service erased simply because of who they were. Fighting With Pride, the UK’s LGBTQ+ military charity, calls these individuals the “lost legion” - loyal personnel dismissed for their identity and left out of veteran support for decades. The Lord Etherton Review (2023) formally recognised the historic mistreatment of LGBTQ+ service personnel, detailing the lasting psychological, financial, and social impacts of the pre-2000 ban. It called for a government apology, financial compensation, and reforms to ensure full inclusion and recognition of those affected.
Why Intersectionality Matters This Black History Month
Black History Month is about celebrating every Black story, including those that cross lines of sexuality, gender identity and service. Why does it matter? Being both Black and LGBTQ+ in the Armed Forces can come with its own set of challenges, from feeling unseen to facing discrimination from more than one direction. That’s why recognising intersectional experiences isn’t just important, it’s essential. When support services don’t reflect the full picture of who veterans are, people slip through the cracks.
Key Charities and Networks Supporting LGBTQ+ and BAME Veterans
- West Indian Association of Service Personnel (WASP): Founded in 1972, WASP supports Black and West Indian service personnel and their families through welfare, advocacy and cultural connection.
- SSAFA & Royal British Legion
Both now highlight BAME and Commonwealth contributions through storytelling, remembrance and inclusive veteran support. - Ministry Of Defence Race Networks: Across the Ministry of Defence, these networks provide mentoring, community and progression pathways.
- RAF BAME Network: Offers mentoring and career support.
- Army BAME Network & Naval Service Commonwealth Network: Equity and welfare advocacy for diverse personnel.
Spotlight: Fighting With Pride
As the UK’s only dedicated LGBTQ+ Armed Forces charity, Fighting With Pride (FWP) champions those impacted by the pre-2000 ban, working to restore recognition, visibility and equal access to veteran support. FWP also leads the Pride in Veterans Standard (PiVS), helping organisations embed LGBTQ+ inclusion through training, policy and partnership.
FWP is also behind the UK’s first memorial to LGBTQ+ service personnel, now in development at the National Memorial Arboretum, a long-overdue tribute to those once excluded.
How Troopr Helps Veterans Find The Right Support
At Troopr, we exist to bridge these gaps, connecting veterans with the right support, no matter their background or identity.
Whether you’re a BAME veteran, an LGBTQ+ veteran in the UK, or both, our platform helps you find:
✅ LGBTQ+ and BAME-focused charities and networks
✅ Employment and mentoring opportunities
✅ Mental health and wellbeing support
Hatty Jackson, Troopr Founder, says:
“No one should have to silence any part of who they are, especially those who have served our nation. Inclusion isn’t a gesture; it’s a practice. We’re proud to stand with BAME and LGBTQ+ veterans, ensuring every story of service is seen and celebrated.”
Black History Month isn’t just about reflection, it’s about progress. By centering LGBTQ+ and BAME veterans, we tell a truer story of service and sacrifice. Let’s honour those who gave everything by giving them what they deserve in return, visibility, respect and connection.
👉 Connect with Troopr today to find support, share your story, or partner to make your organisation more inclusive.