Military Legal Services · Chester & England & Wales
War Pensions Scheme
Compensation for Injuries & Illnesses Caused by Service Before 6 April 2005
Specialist War Pension solicitors advising veterans on claims, disablement assessments and appeals across England and Wales.
No obligation — speak to us first.
What is the War Pensions Scheme?
The War Pensions Scheme (WPS) is a no-fault compensation scheme for veterans and serving personnel who suffered an injury, illness or death caused by service in the UK Armed Forces before 6 April 2005. It is administered by Veterans UK.
The main benefit under the WPS is the War Disablement Pension — a weekly payment based on the assessed level of disablement caused by service. Additional allowances may be available depending on the severity of the condition.
Injured after 6 April 2005? The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) applies instead.
War Pensions Scheme vs AFCS — Key Differences
War Pensions Scheme
- For injuries/illnesses caused by service before 6 April 2005
- Weekly War Disablement Pension based on % disablement
- No strict time limit for claims
- Appeals to First-tier Tribunal
- Additional allowances available (e.g. Constant Attendance Allowance)
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)
- For injuries/illnesses caused by service from 6 April 2005
- Lump sum tariff award + possible Guaranteed Income Payment
- 7-year time limit (or 3 years from leaving service)
- Appeals to First-tier Tribunal
- Separate from civil claims against the MOD
War Pensions Scheme — Common Questions
What is the War Pensions Scheme?
The War Pensions Scheme (WPS) provides no-fault compensation for injuries, illnesses and deaths caused by service in the UK Armed Forces before 6 April 2005. It is administered by Veterans UK. For injuries caused by service on or after 6 April 2005, the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) applies instead.
Who can claim a War Disablement Pension?
Veterans and serving personnel who suffered an injury or illness caused by service before 6 April 2005 may be entitled to a War Disablement Pension. Widows, widowers and surviving civil partners of service personnel who died as a result of service before 6 April 2005 may be entitled to a War Widow's or War Widower's Pension.
How is a War Disablement Pension calculated?
A War Disablement Pension is calculated as a percentage of the full pension rate, based on the assessed level of disablement caused by service. A 100% assessment results in the full pension rate. Lower percentages result in proportionally lower awards. The assessment is carried out by Veterans UK.
Can I appeal a War Pensions Scheme decision?
Yes. If you are unhappy with a War Pensions Scheme decision — for example, if your claim was rejected or the level of disablement assessed is too low — you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (War Pensions and Armed Forces Compensation Chamber). We can advise on the prospects of a successful appeal and represent you throughout the process.
Is there a time limit for making a War Pension claim?
There is no strict time limit for making a War Pension claim, but claims should be made as soon as possible. Backdating of awards is limited, so early claims generally result in higher total payments. We recommend seeking advice without delay.
Can I claim both a War Pension and a civil claim against the MOD?
In some circumstances, yes. A War Pension and a civil claim against the MOD are separate routes. Any War Pension received will generally be taken into account in civil proceedings. We will advise on the interaction between the two routes and which is most appropriate for your circumstances.
Your Military Claims Journey
Your Specialist Solicitor
Jonathan Cloudsdale
Head of Military Legal Services
Over 10 years' specialist experience in complex military claims, personal injury, industrial disease and catastrophic injuries. Multiple six-figure settlements achieved.
Get Started
Speak to a War Pension Solicitor Today
Free confidential assessment — no obligation to proceed.
Prefer to speak with us? Call 01244 757352