Extend ELCAS claim period for Armed Forces Personnel after leaving service

Closed 78 signatures

What the petition asks

We believe the ELCAS credits claim period for service leavers is too short and doesn’t reflect the challenges veterans can face when adjusting to civilian life, and we call on the government to extend the claim period so former personnel have a fair chance to use the training support they’ve earned.

Qualifying varies on time served, and we think this is reasonable and suffice. Those who left service prior to 1st Apr 2016 they had ten years to claim, post this date it has been reduced to 5 years. We think this 10 & 5 year limit needs reviewed and extended in order to support veterans.
We believe a review is required, and that an extension of the claim period is needed due to:
1. Impact of Covid 19 (Lockdown & restrictions).
2. Veterans suffering from Mental Health Issues or PTSD.
3. Transition can be difficult, years eligible for claim to be extended.

Timeline

16 Jan 2026	Petition opened for signatures
16 Jul 2026	Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 78

Status Closed

Department Ministry of Defence

Opened 16 Jan 2026

Closed 16 Jul 2026

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