The Review of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)
Background
On 29 July 2009, the Secretary of State for Defence brought forward a planned review of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. Overall the Review Team spoke to or received comments from over 200 individuals and groups including serving members of the Armed Forces, their families, reservists, veterans, and the general public.
Main recommendations
All lump sum payments will be increased, with the exception of the top level award of £570,000.
Guaranteed income payments (GIP) will be increased to reflect promotions that may be lost as a result of injury, illness or death.
The GIP will take account of potential loss of earnings up to the age of 65, rather than the current age of 55.
A quick compensation payment will be made available to the more seriously injured so they will not have to worry about money while their claim is being processed.
If MOD has lost records relating to your illness or injury, the claims process will be made easier.
You will be able to claim within 7 years of becoming injured or ill (rather than 5) and have a greater time to request reconsiderations and appeals.
If you have significant unexpected deterioration, in future your claim can be reviewed beyond the current 10-year point.
The maximum amount payable for mental disorders will be increased.
If you have multiple injuries from the same incident, you will receive some payment for each of those injuries.
An independent medical expert group will be set up to advise on compensation for hearing loss, injury to genitalia and other medical issues
The review states that the MOD will need to draw up a detailed implementation plan and timetable which recognises that appropriate consultation should be undertaken in relation to the details of how the MOD will give effect to the Recommendations.
You can download the review and an explanatory leaflet from the Ministry of Defence website.
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