Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if his Department will publish a post-programme evaluation of the (a) uptake, (b) communication efficacy, (c) demographic reach and (d) lessons learned of the War Widows Recognition Payment Scheme within 12 months of the scheme closing.

An update titled "War Widows Urged to Claim Recognition Payment Before October 2025 Deadline" was published on 22 August 2025 on GOV.UK to raise awareness of the Scheme's closure to ensure those eligible have the opportunity to claim before the deadline. This followed a Written Ministerial Statement published on 21 July 2025. Details have been shared with members of the Confederation of Service Charities, the War Widows' Association and other members of the Defence Bereaved Families Group (DBFG). Details were also published on the Armed Forces Covenant website on 1 September 2025.

The Ministry of Defence’s Veterans Welfare Service remains available to support individuals in completing their applications.

We will report back to the DBFG in 2026 with details on the final numbers and uptake of the Scheme.

Since its launch on 16 October 2023, the Scheme has approved over 240 applications, awarding more than £21 million and providing meaningful recognition to eligible recipients. Over 70% of applications were submitted in the first three months, but activity has dropped sharply, with just 14 claims in 2025. An internal review confirmed the Scheme was on track to achieving its objectives, and with demand now significantly reduced, the Government will proceed with its planned closure on 15 October 2025. A final communications push will urge those yet to apply to act before the deadline. Further details of the internal review, including analysis can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/war-widowers-recognition-payment