The scheme pays people who were permanently injured, physically or psychologically, in a Troubles-related incident. It is run by the Victims' Payments Board under the Victims' Payments Regulations 2020.
Quick facts
- New applications
- Closed 30 August 2026
- Late applications
- Exceptional circumstances only
- Injury dates
- 1 January 1966 to 11 April 2010
- Minimum disablement
- 14%
- Yearly payment
- £2,589 (20%) to £12,946 (100%)
- After death
- Paid for 10 years to a nominated person
The scheme has closed
In accordance with the Victims’ Payments Regulations 2020, the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme closed to new applications at 11:59 pm on 30 August 2026. nidirect's page still says the scheme will be open until August 2026, but the Victims' Payments Board confirms it has closed.
There is a narrow late route. The Board's President has discretion to consider a late application where there has been a material change of circumstances, or where, because of exceptional circumstances, it would be fair to allow it. Applications made after the closing date will be considered only in exceptional circumstances. If you think this applies to you, email the Board at vpb@justice-ni.gov.uk.
Who it was for
It is for people with a permanent disablement from a Troubles-related injury, physical or psychological. The assessed degree of disablement must be minimum 14%, and the injury must have happened between 1 January 1966 and 11 April 2010.
How much it pays
The amount depends on your degree of permanent disablement. Payments are on a sliding scale, set by the war pensions rates. These are the current yearly rates:
- 100% disablement: £12,946.00 a year
- 50% disablement: £6,473.00 a year
- 20% disablement: £2,589.00 a year
Payments may be adjusted for any previous compensation you have received for the same injury. You can appeal a decision on eligibility, the disablement percentage or a payment adjustment.
What happens after death
Payments are made for 10 years from the date of death, except when a lump sum payment has been made. A panel decides who gets them, usually the person the deceased would likely have nominated, such as a spouse, partner or carer.
Common questions
Can I still apply?
Only in exceptional circumstances or after a material change of circumstances. The scheme closed to new applications at 11:59 pm on 30 August 2026. Email the Victims' Payments Board at vpb@justice-ni.gov.uk to ask about a late application.
What is the lowest disablement that qualifies?
The assessed degree of disablement must be minimum 14%.
Can anyone be excluded?
Yes. People with serious unspent convictions, generally sentences over 30 months, or whose own actions caused their injury, are not eligible.