BLESMA welcomes the findings of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme Review

General Secretary Jerome Church says:

“BLESMA has played an important part in the Independent Review which has now been accepted by the Government for implementation. As a member of the Independent Scrutiny Board under the Chairmanship of Admiral The Lord Boyce, I was able to represent the interests of the Confederation of Service and Ex Service Organisations and BLESMA. We went through the scheme with a fine toothcomb. We felt that the scheme was basically sound but with distinct areas for improvement – and these we achieved. I believe the scheme rightly focuses on those whose injuries will be of lasting and disabling consequence.

But, we have looked at all levels of the scheme and we have been able to address concerns about multiple injuries as well as adjusting lump sum levels and most importantly improving the life long, index linked, tax free Guaranteed Income Payment.

BLESMA’s particular concern about time limits and late in life deterioration for amputees have also been significantly alleviated.

Fair and just compensation is vital and much has been achieved. What we as a Country must do is to keep the care and support we are all responsible for under proper review for our very disabled soldiers for the rest of their lives.

We owe that to them above all.

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Our amputee Members

Read the stories of our Members, meet those who need our support. British soldiers wounded in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Falklands, N Ireland and other conflicts around the world.

• Matt Wollard, wounded soldier – Afghanistan
• Kevin Woodford, wounded soldier – Falklands
• Jerome Church, wounded soldier – N Ireland
• Joe Davies, wounded soldier – WWII
• Adam 'Goolie' Ball – wounded soldier – Afghanistan