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In every corner of the UK’s Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, there’s a renewed sense of visibility and inclusion. Pride Month isn’t just a celebration in civilian spaces, it’s being recognised and embraced across the UK’s military services.
It’s about honour. It’s about identity. And it’s about serving with pride, exactly as you are.
The Journey Towards Inclusion
The story of LGBTQ+ personnel in the British Armed Forces hasn’t always been one of open acceptance. Until 2000, gay and lesbian individuals were banned from serving. Fast forward to today, and not only are LGBTQ+ personnel serving openly, they’re leading, they’re celebrated, and they’re reshaping the culture of the forces for the better.
Each branch of service has made incredible strides:
The Army actively supports LGBTQ+ soldiers through inclusive leadership and networks.
The Royal Navy was the first UK military branch to march in London Pride.
The RAF proudly champions equality through policies, support groups, and community engagement.
Pride in the Army: Strength in Diversity
The British Army has come a long way, and today it recognises that diversity equals strength. From frontline roles to senior leadership, LGBTQ+ soldiers are visible, valued, and heard.
Key efforts include:
Army LGBTQ+ Network: Supporting service personnel, raising awareness, and shaping policy.
Senior Champion Programmes: Ensuring top-down commitment to inclusion.
Participation in Pride events: Marching proudly in cities across the UK.
“Being out in the Army is no longer a risk, it’s a strength. The support I’ve received has been overwhelming.” — Current serving soldier
Royal Navy: A Beacon of Representation
The Royal Navy has been leading the charge when it comes to LGBTQ+ visibility. With a strong history of firsts, they’ve not only set the tone for military inclusion but continue to amplify voices within the ranks.
What the Navy is doing right:
Compass Network: A support organisation for LGBTQ+ naval personnel and allies.
Visible Leadership: Openly LGBTQ+ personnel in command positions.
Inclusive Training: Ensuring every sailor understands the value of diversity.
“It’s powerful to wear the uniform and the rainbow with equal pride.” — Naval Officer
RAF: Flying the Flag for Equality
The Royal Air Force has long recognised that inclusivity is essential for operational effectiveness. Known for its progressive stance, the RAF continues to honour Pride within the service with visible, active support for its LGBTQ+ personnel.
Stand-out initiatives:
Freedom Network: Offering support, resources, and representation for LGBTQ+ service members.
Pride Flag Raising Ceremonies: Held at bases across the country during Pride Month.
Focus on Mental Health and Wellbeing: Prioritising support for LGBTQ+ airmen and women.
“Being myself in the RAF has made me a stronger leader.” — RAF Senior NCO
The Pride in Veterans Standard: Supporting Those Who Served
Inclusion doesn’t stop at the end of service. For too long, LGBTQ+ veterans—especially those dismissed under historic policies—have carried invisible wounds.
That’s where the Pride in Veterans Standard, launched by Fighting With Pride, makes a powerful difference.
What is the Pride in Veterans Standard?
It’s a nationwide initiative designed to:
Promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in veteran support services
Improve access to care, recognition, and community for LGBTQ+ veterans
Educate organisations working with veterans to create safer, more welcoming environments
Why It Matters
Many LGBTQ+ veterans have historically been excluded from veteran support.
The Pride in Veterans Standard is helping right those wrongs by ensuring LGBTQ+ veterans receive the dignity, care, and respect they deserve.
More than just a policy—it’s a commitment to healing, honouring, and celebrating all who have served.
“Being recognised as a veteran, not judged for who I love, gave me a new sense of pride I never thought I’d feel again.” — Former service member, Fighting With Pride participant
Why Pride in the Forces Matters
Representation saves lives. Visibility of LGBTQ+ role models in uniform tells every young person watching that they belong and that they can serve, lead, and make a difference without hiding who they are.
Pride in the service is about:
Courage to be authentic
Commitment to making the Forces better for everyone
Change that ripples far beyond the base gates
Marching Forward, Together
As the UK celebrates Pride this June, it’s important to honour LGBTQ+ service members and veterans, past and present, who’ve stood tall not just in battle, but in the fight for acceptance.
Their resilience has shaped the future of the Armed Forces and continues to inspire change in veteran care.
Today, when the rainbow flag flies beside the Union Jack, whether on base or in a veterans' support centre, it tells a story of unity, service, and pride.
From serving with distinction in the Army, Navy, and RAF, to rebuilding dignity in veteran life through initiatives like the Pride in Veterans Standard, one truth remains clear:
LGBTQ+ personnel are a vital part of the UK’s military history—and its future.
To those serving, and those who have served: thank you for your courage. You carry the flag for so many others.
We salute you.
Sources:
LGBT+ Community within the Armed Forces - Armed Forces Network
Royal Navy and Royal Marines named one of the UK’s top LGBT-friendly employers | Royal Navy
