Labour launches digital Veteran Card – here’s how it works
A new government plan to boost support for veterans is being launched today, as nearly two million people now have access to a digital Veterans Card.
Gazi Card, which has only been accessible as a physical copy until now, allows people who have done military service to benefit from certain services and discounts.
The Ministry of Defense says moving the card to smartphones will make accessing its benefits “easier and faster” to use. By downloading the optional card to their smartphone, former service personnel can show their veteran status without needing a physical card.
It provides a range of benefits, from housing and mental health support to reduced admission to museums and cash discounts at select retailers.
The digital card will display your name, photo, most recent service and date of birth, along with security features that will protect your personal information.
The rollout of the cards could serve as a “case study” of how such credentials work and ease public concerns about the government’s plans to introduce mandatory ID, a minister said.
Digital Government Minister Ian Murray acknowledged the introduction of digital cards for veterans could demonstrate to the public how credentials work and potentially address criticisms voiced over civil liberties.
The Edinburgh South Labor MP said: “[It’s] In that sense, it’s probably a demonstration to the public by default, on the basis that this is the first use case of having digital credentials on your smartphone, and digital credentials are the first type of verifiable information that the government is now introducing.
How to download the Senior Card
In order to obtain a Digital Veteran Card, the applicant must first have a physical card. You can apply for this at gov.uk.
Cardholders can also apply for the digital version later at gov.uk. To do this, they will need to create a One Login app account, which requires an email address.
If their current picture is not clear enough, they will need to submit passport photos to be used in the application. From now on, the card will be accessible from the One Login application.
The card was the first digital document stored in the application, which the government has been developing for several years. It also plans to launch digital driver’s licenses.
Technology secretary Liz Kendall said: “Our veterans have given everything serving their country and it is right that we give them all the support they need.
“As we deliver national renewal, we are modernizing our public services so that they align with people’s lives and keep up with the digital world we live in. The digital veterans card will help remove barriers, reduce bureaucracy and make it easier for people to access the public services they need.”
