How Military Injury Made All the Difference
"I Didn’t Think I’d Qualify!" One Veteran’s Journey Through the AFCS Claim Process
When Mark left the military after nearly a decade of service, he expected the adjustment to civilian life to be tough, but what he didn’t expect was how long-term his injuries would be. A knee injury sustained during training and a hearing issue from years of exposure to gunfire continued to affect his day-to-day life. Still, he shrugged it off as 'part of the job.'
It wasn’t until a friend mentioned the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) that Mark considered making a claim. “Honestly, I thought it was only for people with catastrophic injuries,” he says. “I didn’t realise that things like joint damage or hearing loss – especially if you’re still able to work to some degree – could qualify.”
Mark found us online after the .gov website left him more confused than reassured. “There were so many things that needed to be covered, and the language wasn’t straightforward. I was worried I’d miss something and get rejected,” he explains.
Starting the Process
When Mark first reached out to us, he wasn’t sure where to begin. We arranged a call to talk through what had happened, when his injuries occurred, and how they were affecting him now. "It wasn’t just ticking boxes," he recalls. "Military Injury knew what evidence was crucial and explained what the Veterans UK assessors would be looking for."
From there, we helped him gather all the necessary documentation, including medical records from both his time in service and current NHS notes, and details about the treatment he'd received. We also helped Mark understand how his injury would likely be classified under the AFCS tariff system, so he had realistic expectations going in. "I wasn't promised the moon," he says. "But I was reassured I had a strong case."
The Outcome
After 6 months, Mark received a Tier 6 award for his knee injury and a separate payment for hearing damage. In total, his claim resulted in a lump sum that helped with adapting his home and funding physiotherapy, and he now receives a monthly Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP).
His Advice to Others? "Don’t Put It Off."
Mark says he often tells mates from his regiment to look into the scheme, especially now that he’s seen the process through. "Even if you think it’s ‘not bad enough’ or you're not eligible – talk to someone. I wish I’d done it sooner."
If you’re a former member of the UK Armed Forces, or you're still serving, and you’ve suffered an injury, illness or condition that was caused by service, you don’t have to go it alone. Like Mark, you may be entitled to compensation under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) or the War Pension Scheme (WPS), and we’re here to help make the process as smooth – and successful – as possible.
Ready to start your claim?
Get in touch with our friendly team today and let us help you get the recognition you deserve.