Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Defence
Review policy on autoimmune diseases and fitness to serve in the Armed Forces
Closed
29 signatures
What the petition asks
Currently most people with autoimmune diseases are classed as unfit to serve in the Armed Forces. I would like to Government to review this policy so that people can serve if multiple doctors believe they are fit enough, or if their condition is being effectively treated.
In 2016/17 over 20,000 applicants were rejected for medical reasons. Those with an autoimmune disease and a life goal to work with the men and women in the Armed Forces are unable to join due to the restrictions set upon them, even if they are receiving effective treatment for this condition.
The Government should review the medical policy on fitness to serve and allow these people to enlist and serve their country in the Armed Forces.
The Government should review the medical policy on fitness to serve and allow these people to enlist and serve their country in the Armed Forces.
Timeline
| 16 Sep 2020 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 16 Mar 2021 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
29
Status
Closed
Department
Ministry of Defence
Opened
16 Sep 2020
Closed
16 Mar 2021
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.