NOVEMBER 2003

War Disablement Pensioners are Not Bludgers

Don’t some people have some funny ideas? The other day I was told by a lady who has worked in welfare for a little while that her husband, who was on active service overseas and deafened due to gunfire, will not claim a War Disablement Pension and ask for a hearing aid because it’s bludging. In the meanwhile this poor lady has to put up with the television volume at such a high level that she too is being deafened.

War Pensions are compensatory pensions paid due to disablement or death as a member of the Forces.

What does that mean? It means that if you were in the Forces before 1 April 1974, or, after that date you went overseas to a war, emergency or peacekeeping operation that has been recognised by the Government you are eligible to make an application to have any disability, illness or condition that you believe was caused or aggravated by your service considered by a War Pensions Claims Panel.
This is not bludging. You were in the Forces and did as you were ordered. If that service has meant that your health is not as good as it might have been you should be able to test out your eligibility for that compensation. It doesn’t matter how long ago you served, and you can claim for any number of disabilities or illnesses.

If you think that your GP will not sign your application form, please remember that all he or she is signing to say is that you are currently suffering from a particular problem; s/he does not have to link your disability back to your service.

If you would like a War Disablement Pension Application form please call 0800 553 003 for War Pension Services, 04 384 7994 for me, Margaret Snow, or contact your local RSA Pensions and Welfare Officer.