The Ministry of Defence has announced a new digital verification service for people applying for a HM Armed Forces Veteran Card.
The new verification service to support applications will include online applications via GOV.UK and identity checks using GOV.UK’s new One Login service. It will also see an automated service checking to confirm veteran status for most applications using MOD service records databases.
The Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA) has led the initial Discovery and Alpha phases of the new service, establishing how the Veteran Card can be delivered in the most simple and effective way. The MOD has now taken on its development and will deliver the service.
The MOD said the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card will allow veterans to “quickly and easily prove their veteran status where required,” thereby granting them simpler access to key support from government, charities, local authorities, and other organisations.
Roll-out will be in phases according to service years to manage the volume of requests and prevent any potential delays resulting from demand exceeding capacity.
With around 1.8 million veterans in the UK, the MOD said it is focused on building the technology and processes to deal with large volumes of card applications accurately and securely.
Testing on the service started this summer, and the MOD said it expects cards to be available to veterans later this year. A paper-based application process will also be made available for veterans who are unable to use the online service.
Since December 2018, all Service leavers automatically receive a Veteran Card from the MOD as part of their discharge process and so do not need to apply. The new verification service will address how to replace a lost Veteran Card.
