X-Forces Enterprise: Virtual 3-day Spouse and Partner Self Employment Workshop

For further information, please click here: X-Forces Enterprise. 

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Over £290,000 to support those with seldom heard needs in Armed Forces communities

Ensuring under-represented voices in armed forces communities are heard is vital. In the latest round of their Hidden Voices programme, the Armed Forces Covenant Trust (the Trust) awarded grants totalling more than £290,000 to 15 projects delivering accessible mental health and wellbeing support for those with seldom heard needs in armed forces communities.

These projects will focus on improving access to bespoke support for groups whose voices, opinions or needs are not adequately represented or who face barriers to accessing support services.

Serve & Protect Credit Union: Upcoming Webinars and May Update

This May, Serve and Protect Credit Union are delivering a range of free educational webinars on the following financial topics:

Thu 1st - Eco-Friendly Ways to Save Money

Tue 6th - Responsible Lending: How We Can Stop Loan Sharks Together

Thu 8th - Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money

Thu 15th - Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score

Wed 21st - The Road to Financial Resilience: Preparing for the Unexpected

Thu 22nd - Before You Borrow: Things to Know

With actionable tips to prepare for financial emergencies, improve your credit score, and budget your money, don't miss out on these free webinars from Serve and Protect!

Register here: https://sandpcu.co.uk/hs-webinars

Podcast Episode 13

If you're unhappy with how gambling makes you feel, or are worried about a loved one, confidential and free support is available. 

Our friends at Serve and Protect Credit Union recently welcomed GambleAware to their podcast to discuss gambling stigma and how to reach out for help.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/BwkPUGu4X9Y?si=RcUvqmAP4MhhTZfb

NEW Fixed Cash ISA

Serve and Protect Credit Union's new Fixed Cash ISA is here for the 2025/26 tax year. 

Secure a guaranteed and tax-free 4% AER return over the next year and watch your savings grow!

Learn more via their website: https://sandpcu.co.uk/hs-isa

Month of the Military Child: Final week to enter the Poetry and Art Competition

Final week to enter the Month of the Military Child Poetry and Art Competition – the closing date is 2 May.

Prizes include a £25 Amazon voucher, goodie bag and invitation to come to an award ceremony in London, and the best school display will win a £250 book voucher!

Learn more and enter here:

https://www.neversuchinnocence.com/month-of-the-military-child

Brunei: BFB Quarterly Spouses Coffee Morning and COMD 4X Visit to Families - Wednesday, 30th April 2025, 0845 - 1230 hrs @ CCCC

Please click the image to enlarge.

All BFB Families are encouraged to attend.

Please click the link or scan the QR code below for the attendance.

The cut-off date has been extended due to unexpectedly low attendance. All BFB Families are encourage to seize this opportunity!

Please submit your name by Tuesday, 29th April 2025 by 1200 hrs.

Brunei: BFB Blood Donation Drive - Tuesday, 29th April 2025, 1000 - 1300 hrs @ BFB Gymnasium, Tuker Lines

The blood donation event will be held at the Gymnasium in Tuker lines from 1000 – 1300hrs on 29 April 2025. This event is open to all BFB community including LECs.

This blood donation drive will aim to encourage our BFB community to donate blood, address the critical shortage of blood supply in local hospitals and most importantly, help save lives.

The following personnel are nominated to fill the appointments listed:

Event Dir - Maj Henderson (RMO)

Event OIC - SSgt Shankar (BST Tp Staff)

Event IC - LCpl Shikhar (BST)

Event 2IC - Sig Umang (BST)

Any questions regarding the event should be directed to Event IC, LCpl Shikhar (Brunei Signal Troop), 322 4101 Ext 3726, email: Shikhar.kulungrai100@mod.gov.uk .

Volunteers are ineligible to donate blood if:

a. You have had given blood in the last 8 weeks.

b. You have a chesty cough, sore throat or active cold sore.

c. You have some heart conditions.

d. You have received blood, platelets, plasma, or any other blood products after 1 January 1980.

e. You have tested positive for HIV.

f. You have had an organ transplant,

g. You are currently taking antibiotics, or you have just finished a course within the last seven days or have had any infection in that last two weeks.

h. You have had hepatitis or jaundice in the last 12 months.

i. You have had a tattoo in the last 6 months.

j. You have injected non-prescribed drugs including body-building and injectable tanning agents. 

AFF Virtual Immigration Brief – Tuesday, 29th April 2025, 7 PM - 8 PM

Month of the Military Child - Wear PURPLE on 25th April 2025

Kent University Space Week - 06th - 10th August 2025

Kent University Space Week, which is being held again this year and falls during the summer holidays and might be of interest to some of the elder children when they arrive from Brunei.

Space week will be on the 6th - 10th August 2025 for the same ages as last year.

Pre-registration can be accessed here:

Pre-register your interest here:

https://universityofkent.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dhDEvKKQcQ2jsJo

Website: https://research.kent.ac.uk/kent-space-week/

Mailbox: spaceweek@kent.ac.uk

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Brunei: Isolated Unit Status (ISU) Travel Arrangements

1. All BFB Service Personnel and their immediate families are reminded that QOGLR Detachment will provide transportation services for travel to and from Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) shopping centres, Kuala Belait / Tutong shopping centres to access local amenities.

2. Availability is limited and will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. This service is available on Thursday and Saturday only. Any sub-unit or departments that wish to utilise this service are required to contact the QOGLR Detachment via bruneigar-qoglr-mailbox@mod.gov.uk or sanjay.limbu181@mod.gov.uk. 

Brunei: Nepali New Year 2082 Celebration - Saturday, 19th April 2025, 1700 - 2230 hrs @ Tuker Lines MT Park

Please click the image to enlarge.

Job opportunity: DWP Universal Credit Job Centre Work Coach - Central England

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has Executive Officer Work Coach opportunities available across Central England. Applications can be made through the Civil Service Jobs website before 11.55pm on Wed 30th April 2025.

Civil Service Jobs link: Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Central England (Ref: 730) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on DWP’s EO Microsite

Job opportunity with a charity - Senior Social Media Executive (remote, full time, permanent)

There’s a job opportunity at Relate (now part of Family Action, a national charity) that might be of interest to Service leavers, veterans, spouses, partners and the wider military community.

Senior Social Media Executive (Remote, Full Time, Permanent Job Opportunity)

• Job Reference: 1439
• Location: Homeworking
• Hours of Work: 37 hours per week (full-time)
• Salary: £32,311 FTE + £480 home working allowance per annum
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Closing Date: 11 May 2025

Relate at Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

Family Action is a national charity that supports people through change, challenge and crisis across England and Wales. On 1st January 2025, Relate, the largest provider of relationship support, joined the organisation helping us reach even more people and support the creation of secure foundations for children and young people, and safe, supportive relationships for all.

For over 150 years Family Action has seen first-hand the power of family and relationships to shape lives, for better or worse. That's why we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

Whatever family means or looks like to us, it's relationships that matter. With Relate at Family Action, we are able to extend the support we provide with counselling, information, mediation and support to individuals, couples and families from all backgrounds and sexualities, as well as provide expert training for relationship support practitioners.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our organisation and help shape the future of Relate’s social media presence as part of Family Action. You will oversee Relate’s paid and organic social media activity, build brand awareness and drive sales of services and toolkits, whilst also supporting wider Relate at Family Action work aligning both brands.

Brunei: BFB 24 Hour Charity Swimathon 2025 - Friday, 0700 hrs on 18th April – Saturday, 0700 hrs on 19th April 2025 @ BFB Swimming Pool

Join the BFB 24-Hour Charity Swimathon: A Day of Community, Fun and Fundraising!

On 18 and 19 April 2025, Serving Personnel (SP) will dive into the BFB 24-Hour Swimathon at the Tuker Lines Swimming Pool, marking a significant opportunity to raise vital funds for two important charities: the Gurkha Museum Trust and the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).

Event Details

What: BFB 24-Hour Charity Swimathon

When: 0700 hrs on 18th April – 0700 hrs on 19th April 2025 (Friday to Saturday)

Where: Tuker Lines Swimming Pool

Who: A, B, C, Sup, HQ, and GST SPs (MST passed)

Why: To raise funds for the Gurkha Museum Trust and the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF)

How:
            a. A group of 10 (MST passed swimmers) from each Coy will relay
            b. One swimmer at all times in the pool and can use any style to swim
            c. Maximum distance to be covered within 24 hrs
            d. Prize to the winning team that covers the longest distance
            e. Team entry fee of BND 100 ($10/pax) to be submitted to the Event Coord shankar.gurung231@mod.gov.uk (cash preferred)
            f. Entertainment – music, projector cinema, food stall (pay as you eat), drink stall (pay as you drink), play-station, tambola, quiz, massage, etc

            g. First aid point with duty medic on standby
            h. Life guard present throughout the event
            i. Provision of sleeping area for swimmers and support team
            j. Live broadcast by BFBS

How to Donate

You can donate to the cause through the GoFundMe page created for the event. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference in supporting the Gurkha Museum and the Army Benevolent Fund. Your generosity will directly help fund the maintenance and preservation of the Gurkha Museum, as well as provide crucial aid to veterans and their families. Additionally, there will be charity donation pots at the event for those who wish to contribute in person. Every donation helps, and we encourage the entire BFB community to show their support in any way they can.

Spread the word and help make this event a huge success. We look forward to seeing you at the Tuker Lines Swimming Pool on 18th April for what promises to be a memorable 24 hours of swimming, fun and community spirit!

Brunei: RMP – Rise in Suspicious Activity

RMP – Rise in Suspicious Activity

There have recently been several incidents of suspicious activity within the Garrison. All members of BFB are reminded that such matters should be reported to the RMP, Royal Brunei Police Force and the Duty Officer as soon as possible. Delays in reporting incidents to the Police will hinder appropriate measures taken against further criminal activity.

We are urging all residents of BFB to be vigilant and take extra precautions to secure their homes and belongings. Please take note of the following:

• Secure all windows, doors, vehicles, and outbuildings.

• Do not leave any belongings insecure.

• Consider installing CCTV or Ring Doorbells.

• Avoid posting on social media about holidays or times when your property will be vacant until after you have returned.

• Look out for each other and report any suspicious activity.

If you have any CCTV or Ring Doorbell footage that is relevant to recent incidents, please contact the RMP.

If you feel that you or someone else are in immediate danger or need support right away, always call 993 for a RBPF emergency response.

RMP Det Brunei:

Office Hours Only: +673 322 4101 (Ext 3767)

Duty Mobile: +673 833 0252

Royal Brunei Police Force:

Panaga: +673 322 2955 / 322 7333 (G15, H15, H16, J16)

Kuala Belait: +673 333 4324 / 333 2333 (X1, X2, Jurassic Park)

Duty Officers:

Garrison: +673 833 0230

1 RGR: +673 833 0220

Vacant Property Survey:

The vacant property survey allows the RMP to more effectively identify those properties that are vacant during leave periods. This will trigger more frequent security patrols in these areas of the Garrison.

Access the survey using the link or the QR code below: https://forms.office.com/e/Pbxfn5F5Jg

SSAFA Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF) Conference – Registration Now Open

In-person tickets are now down to the last few, however there is still availability for virtual tickets.

The Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF) Conference 2025 is taking place on 2 June 2025. This is an empowering and informative event designed for current service personnel and their families with additional needs or disabilities. Hosted by the FANDF committee and facilitated by SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, this conference will offer expert insights and practical advice for service families.

The event will be FANDF’s first hybrid FANDF event. You can join in person or virtually, making it accessible for those with caring responsibilities or living further afield.

The event will feature guest speakers from Defence (MOD) and support services offering valuable advice, information, and insights on available support for families. Our theme for this conference is 35 years strong: Championing Families, Shaping Change and we hope to celebrate some of the successes of support available for service families, whilst also highlighting how we can continue to shape change.

What's included:

• Food provided on the day
• Travel reimbursement available for FANDF members
• Accommodation available for FANDF members traveling over 2.5 hours

Who should attend?

• FANDF members or those eligible for FANDF membership.
• Professionals in the sector - please note, priority will be given to FANDF members for in-person attendance.

We invite you to attend this important event to hear from experts, ask questions, and access the support you and your family deserve. The FANDF committee look forward to welcoming you to this significant event, designed to shape change and further champion families with Additional Needs & Disabilities within the Armed Forces.

If you would like more information, please email: CS.ANDA@ssafa.org.uk

For details of FANDF membership, please visit: Forces Additional Needs and Disability Forum FANDF | Disability support | SSAFA

Brunei: Privately Owned Vehicle Regular Maintenance Checks

Recent data from RGR MT regarding RTC and RTC reporting indicates a significant number of incidents occurring in Brunei involving privately owned vehicles. The primary contributing factor to these incidents appears to be inadequate regular maintenance checks on such vehicles. It is the individual owner's responsibility to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained. We encourage everyone to refer to the linked here which provides general guidance on how to perform maintenance checks on your own vehicle.

Support is Always Available

Please click the image to enlarge.

Click HERE for PDF.

Aurora New Dawn - Armed Forces Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Stalking Helpline launches is now live.

Please click the image to enlarge.

We are delighted to share that our new Armed Forces Helpline for survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking is now live.

This Helpline is for any members of the Royal Navy British Army and Royal Air Force and their family members, including those deployed abroad, who are victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence or Stalking.

The Helpline operates 6 days a week. It is independent, confidential, and free, and having consulted with victim/survivors we have made sure to be available at different times.

Launched on the 31st March 2025, and funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, and the Army Benevolent Fund the Helpline has already exceeded the number of contacts anticipated.

At Aurora, we understand that the Armed Forces Community is unique, and we know that service life brings with it a number of challenges which can make it harder to talk about these issues.

The Helpline has been designed with an understanding of these specific needs in mind. Many of our specialist team are from Forces families or are ex service personnel. They understand service life, and how difficult it can be to talk about what is happening.

Those who choose to perpetrate Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Stalking come from all walks of life. We want to make sure that victim/survivors with links to the armed forces get specialist support that has been designed with them and for them.

For general and professional enquiries, to contact the team, or for information on how to refer to the service call 023 92 479 254 or email us.

Need help?

Get support from the Armed Forces Helpline via 

Phone +44 (0)333 0912 527 (GMT): 0900-1500 Monday to Friday

Get support from the Armed Forces Helpline via 

WhatsApp on +44 (0)333 0912 527: Tuesday 0900-1500 / Wednesday & Thursday 1700-2000 / Sunday 1000-1400

MOD: Victim Witness Care Unit

The Defence Victim Witness Care Unit (VWCU) provides support and guidance for victims and witnesses during their journey through the Service Justice System.

Visit the website for more information: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/victim-witness-care-unit-vwcu

NHS England: Armed Forces health stakeholder brief - Spring 2025

Please click the image to enlarge.

NHS England’s Spring 2025 Armed Forces health stakeholder brief provides updates on the following topics:

• Op RESTORE, the NHS England-commissioned physical health and wellbeing service for veterans
• Op NOVA, the NHS England commissioned support service for veterans in the justice system
• The NHS Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) Veteran Aware Annual Conference
• Step into Health - assisting with the transition from military service to careers within the NHS
• NHS SARCS: Care and support available to sexual assault and abuse survivors
• Latest primary care network veteran friendly accreditations

To read the brief in full please click HERE.

Brunei: PCMF - Cervical Screening

Cervical screening, which used to be called smear test, is a way of preventing cervical cancer. It is not a test for cancer. It tests for a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).

High risk HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix, which may develop into cancer over time. But not all cell changes will develop into cancer. So, it's important to monitor any changes and give treatment if necessary. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to high-risk HPV.

Mission Motorsport March & April Newsletter

The Mission Motorsport team has continued the fast-paced start to the year, packed with recovery sport and memorable events - and there’s still so much more to come. Check out their latest newsletter to see what they’ve been up to, what’s ahead, and how you can get involved, including:

• National Transition Event 2025: A Resounding Success at Silverstone
• Upcoming events: Veterans@Heritage, Prodrive Tour, Bicester Scramble and a tour and Millington Engines
• Details on how to be a 'Grid Person' for Speedworks at BTCC
• Volunteering Opportunities:  Get involved in running the Mission Motorsport Scalextric
• Fundraising: Simon Griffiths completes his ride from RAF Gibraltar to RAF Benson
• Other news and information

To read the newsletter, please click here

Serve & Protect Credit Union: 2025/26 Cash ISA now launched!

Serve and Protect Credit Union's latest Fixed Cash ISA is here!

Secure a guaranteed and tax-free 4% AER return on your savings for the 2025/26 tax year, while supporting the wider community of those who serve and protect. Here’s how the new Fixed Cash ISA benefits you:

• Start Small, Save Big: Deposit as little as £5, with contributions up to £20,000 for this tax year.
• Tax-Free Growth: Enjoy a guaranteed 4% AER return to maximise your savings effortlessly.
• Peace of Mind: Your savings are protected up to £85,000 by the FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme).
• Community Impact: Your savings make a meaningful difference by supporting others within the credit union.

Learn more at: https://sandpcu.co.uk/isa-hs-email

BFBS Update - April 2025

The BFBS April Update is now available to read online – please clink this link to view the latest news.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust latest round of grants: Serving Families - On the Move programme

A further three projects have been awarded bringing the total number to 14 projects worth over £1.25 million! These inclusive projects will improve the quality of life for service families affected by the difficulties and challenges relocation can bring, by implementing support for families not to just adapt but thrive in their new communities - in the latest round of grants from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund.

Recruit for Spouses: Free programmes designed to empower and guide you every step of the way

The latest Recruit for Spouses flyer outlines a range of upcoming free employability, industry insights, and financial workshops available to members of the Armed Forces community.

The link to sign up is: RFS Portal

In addition to these workshops, RFS are now accepting applications for two further free programmes offering additional support:

1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Programme
This 6-week virtual programme is available to spouses of serving personnel, veterans, and reserves. It covers a range of topics, including:Managing isolation and anxiety
Communication strategies
Building support networks

2. Foreign & Commonwealth Programme
This programme provides support to the Foreign and Commonwealth community, helping individuals convert their home nation qualifications to their UK equivalents, alongside tailored employment support.

For further information please visit: Recruit for Spouses - Championing Military Spouses for Career Success

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment – multiple locations

The Department of Work and Pensions has 76 new Executive Officer Team Leader opportunities across multiple locations. These are now open for applications until 24 April 2025.

Civil Service Jobs link: Operational Delivery - Team Leader - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK (job reference 366699)

There are jobs available at the following locations: Bangor (Gwynedd), Basildon, Bristol, Burnley, Dundee, Glasgow, Hastings, Motherwell, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Preston, St Austell, Stockport, Stockton-on-Tees, Sunderland, Swansea, Wigan, Wrexham. 

Please note: this vacancy is not on the DWP EO microsite but there is a candidate pack available within the advert content on Civil Service Jobs – see link above. Candidates will be asked to complete two online tests, then if successful complete a 250 word personal statement. If their statement is successful they will then be invited to a live Microsoft Teams interview.

Aurora New Dawn: Athena Domestic Abuse Awareness & Recovery Programme – 3 June to 22 July

Aurora New Dawn’s Athena Domestic Abuse Awareness/Recovery Group is military specific and all online via zoom. This programme is for 8 weeks taking place on Tuesday evenings 3 June to 22 July, and is open to serving personnel and families worldwide.

Details of how to sign up are on the poster, and to find out more about Aurora New Dawn’s support to the Service community, please go to: https://www.aurorand.org.uk/armed-forces/

Veterans Karting Championships with Mission Motorsport

Mission Motorsport, the Forces’ Motorsport Charity, supports the recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military service by offering exciting opportunities in motorsport and the wider automotive industry. It’s all about helping individuals regain confidence, build new skills, and have a great time doing it.

Please see the image for details of all event locations and dates.

Registration is now open for all rounds—you can sign up via the links below or simply use the QR code on the poster.

Here are the event dates and sign-up links:

29th April – Leicester: Sign up here
13th May – Newcastle: Sign up here
17th June – Crawley: Sign up here
15th July – Cardiff: Sign up here
16th September – Preston: Sign up here
7th October – Birmingham: Sign up here

These events are free to attend and open exclusively to members of the Armed Forces Community. It’s a brilliant opportunity to reconnect, try something new, and experience the buzz of motorsport in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Events like this happen with amazing support from TeamSport Karting.

To see what events Mission Motorsport are running please visit: website.

Military vs Cancer Rugby Event – Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle, 21 June

Tackling cancer, one try at a time - Join us for the Military vs Cancer Rugby Event at Kingston Park on 21 June at Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle.

This Armed Forces Day, be part of an unforgettable event that celebrates courage, community, and the fight against cancer. Watch as the UK Armed Forces Rugby Teams take on the North Select XV in thrilling men’s and women’s matches. This is more than just rugby — it’s a day of unity, remembrance, and support for a vital cause.

Honour Your Loved Ones
Make this event even more meaningful by having the name of a loved one featured on the official rugby kit worn by the players. For just £20, you can ensure their name becomes part of this incredible day. With space for 750 names, this is a unique way to celebrate someone special while supporting Military vs Cancer. Names are limited to 20 characters each — so act fast to secure your spot! To add a name to the jersey, include it in the comments when purchasing your reward online via the link or QR code. Let’s fill that kit with love, strength, and remembrance!

In Memory of Heroes
This year’s game and kit will honour the memory of Cpl Tim Crossin RM and L/Cpl Nathan Summersgill-Smith RM, two brave individuals who fought valiantly but sadly lost their battles with cancer. Let’s come together to celebrate their legacy and support others in need.

What to Expect:

Top-Tier Rugby Action: Witness elite players from the Armed Forces and North Select XV.

Military Displays: marching bands, veterans sweetheart Sarah Dennis, and interactive exhibits.

Family Fun: A day filled with entertainment for all ages.

Community Spirit: Reconnect with friends and support a cause that matters.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event! Tickets are available now via the Newcastle Falcons website or the Defence Discount Service for military personnel and veterans. 

Defending the Try Line, Honouring the Front Line

Young Carers within Armed Forces Families - Nexus Easter Newsletter

Nexus is a three-year project funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Trust. The project aims to improve support, resources and access to services for young carers within armed forces families.

To find out more, and the latest updates, you can read the Easter Newsletter.

Headspace: New Ebb Chat Service now available

Army personnel and Army civil servants are eligible to sign up to Headspace for free, and also to extend this free subscription offer to five friends and family.

To sign up, please go to https://work.headspace.com/britisharmy/member-enroll

Please use your @mod.gov.uk, @armymail.mod.uk or @csmail.mod.uk email address to verify your account when prompted.

Brunei: ISB Withdrawal Notification Deadline - 11 April 2025

For all SP/UKBC with children at ISB who will be leaving at the end of this school year, the deadline for informing the school is 11 April 2025.

Those SP/UKBC who do not inform ISB of their child's leaving at the end of the summer term could be liable to repay the deposit fee.

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment – Southern England (multiple locations)

The Department of Work and Pensions has 100 new Executive Officer work coach opportunities across Southern England. These are now open for applications until 17 Apr 2025.

Civil Service Jobs link: Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Southern England (Ref: 729) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

There are jobs available at the following locations: Abingdon, Aldershot, Andover, Aylesbury, Banbury, Basingstoke, Bedford, Biggleswade, Borehamwood, Bracknell, Chesham, Didcot, Eastleigh, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, High Wycombe, Hythe, Leighton Buzzard, Letchworth, Luton, Maidenhead, Milton Keynes, Newbury, Oxford, Reading, Salisbury, Slough, Southampton, St Albans, Stevenage, Waltham Cross, Watford, Witney. 

More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on the DWP EO Microsite.

New guidance for schools and local authorities on supporting Service pupils

On 1 April 2025, the Ministry of Defence and Department for Education published non-statutory guidance to help state-funded schools and local authorities in England to understand and address the needs of Service pupils in schools (reception to year 11).

NAAFI Fund 2025 – Applications Now Open

NAAFI have just announced the launch of the NAAFI Fund Date for 2025!

The NAAFI Fund was launched back in 2020 and has supported 467 projects so far, donating over £4 million to help improve the lives of service personnel and their families around the world. To read more about the projects that NAAFI have supported to date: https://naafi.co.uk/giving-back/

To read the blog post announcing new information regarding the NAAFI Fund 2025: NAAFI Fund: Applications Open Soon - NAAFI

Forces Employment Charity Monthly Update - Award Nominations, Marathons, and Events

Forces Employment Charity’s monthly update is now available, and the latest news includes:

• Heropreneurs Awards 2025 nominations are now open
• A round-up of events across the UK and online webinars
• Marathon preparations
• Get to know Forces Employment Charity’s military women employment lead
• Satisfaction survey
• Links for further information

Read the update in full at this link: Get involved: Award Nominations, Marathons, and Events

FamCAS 25: Have you shared your views on Service family life? Time’s running out!

The Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS) 2025 closes today Monday 7 April at 23:59! Don’t miss your opportunity to tell us what you think about Service family life.

Each year, Defence invites a random sample of Service partners to complete the Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS). This survey is your chance to tell us about your experiences and views in relation to various aspects of Service family life.

You can see if you are in this year’s sample, and can access the survey, by using the online tool.

Why complete the survey?
Your feedback will help us to understand what Service life is like for your family, which will help us to make informed decisions on what changes to prioritise and develop policies to address your family’s challenges and needs. Whether it’s with childcare and children’s education, housing, deployment, or employment.

Who can complete the survey, and how?
To find out if you can take part in FamCAS 2025, please use the online eligibility tool. You will be asked to enter a token/access code, which is your partner’s Service number. This is needed for security reasons only. Please be assured that all survey responses are anonymous.

If eligible, the tool will direct you to the survey. We recommend using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

If you have any questions about this year's FamCAS, please email: Analysis-Surveys-Enquiries@mod.gov.uk.

Information and support
Check out our new Families Hub, which signposts to support, guidance and organisations to help you navigate Service family life.

Visit Discover My Benefits to find out about the range of benefits, opportunities, and support for you and your family.

Serve & Protect Credit Union: April Update

Free financial webinars this April from Serve and Protect - don't miss out!

• Eco-Friendly Ways to Save Money
• Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money
• Credit Score 101: Boost Your Score
• The Road to Financial Resilience
• Before You Borrow: Things to Know

Register here: https://sandpcu.co.uk/webinars

NEW Fixed Cash ISA
Serve and Protect have launched their new Fixed Cash ISA for the 2025/26 tax year. 

Secure a guaranteed and tax-free 4% AER return over the next year and watch your savings grow!

Learn more via their website: https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/save/cash-isa/

Podcast Episodes 11 & 12 
Loan sharks can have a devastating impact on people's lives and becoming a victim is easier than you may think.

Our friends at Serve and Protect recently welcomed Stop Loan Sharks to their podcast to explore some misconceptions, stories from victims, and the support available!

Watch here: https://youtu.be/6z-xdYbehBs?si=di6_UU_0OCTptnkB

For Debt Awareness Week, our friends at Serve and Protect welcomed the Money and Pensions Service to their podcast to explore the stigma around debt. 

If you find it difficult to talk about money with your loved ones, this episode includes some manageable steps to start a conversion.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/X_PkxsAG1co?si=voGbF96Aovyafy9l

Stress Awareness Month - April
April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to understand the causes and cures of stress. 

If your finances make you feel stressed, Serve and Protect are here to help you save and build your financial resilience.

Learn more via their website: https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/