I wish to inform the House of the Government’s decision to close the war widows recognition payment scheme on 15 October 2025, in line with the original plan for the scheme to operate for a fixed period of two years.
The war widows recognition payment scheme was introduced on 16 October 2023 to recognise widow(er)s —including civil partners and unmarried cohabiting partners—of service personnel who forfeited their pensions due to a service-attributable death occurring before 2015. From the outset, the scheme was designed as a time-limited initiative to address this specific issue and to acknowledge the sacrifices made by the spouses and partners of those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
Since its launch, the scheme has successfully fulfilled its intended purpose, having awarded almost £21 million since it launched, providing meaningful recognition to those who were eligible. Following an internal review and the drop-off in application numbers, the Government are now proceeding with the planned closure of the scheme, as originally outlined at its inception.
The scheme will remain open for applications until 15 October 2025, after which no new applications will be accepted. All applications received before this date will be processed in accordance with the scheme’s existing guidelines. I strongly encourage those eligible to apply as soon as possible.
Resources will continue to be directed towards other programmes and initiatives that provide comprehensive assistance to veterans, service personnel, their families, and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, the bereaved.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have served in the armed forces and their families for their sacrifices and contributions to our country.
Further details regarding the closure of the scheme and the support available to affected individuals will be published on the Defence Business Services website and communicated directly to stakeholders.
[HCWS866]