I periodically look at GOV.UK to check that the advice I give on obtaining service records is current.
Looks like a policy change on 22nd April 2024 now considers releasing medical records on request.
Medical records for deceased service personnel
"How to apply
To request medical records for a deceased service person, please email
CIO-FOI@mod.gov.uk.
What to include in your request
Please ensure you include the following details (if known):
full name of the service person
service number
date of birth
date of death
service they served for, e.g. Army, Navy or Royal Air Force (RAF)
copy of death certificate or other legal declaration of death
any other information you think would be relevant to your request
In the absence of a death certificate or other legal declaration of death, the MOD adopts a policy of assuming that a person is alive until the age of 116. You do not need a copy of the death certificate if the person died in service or was born more than 116 years ago.
The MOD will not disclose any information where release could prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of its forces. In the very rare case that release of information from a service record might be prejudicial or cannot be released for other reasons, the applicant will be advised of the relevant FOIA statutory exemption that applies to its non-disclosure.
Published 22 April 2024"
This is a very new service and seems to need a direct application.
Ross
