Assigned overseas? Take the MOD Overseas Families Survey!

How can we better support you and your family while overseas?

Take the MOD Overseas Families Survey!

Your feedback will help to shape Defence’s overseas families' policies, in areas such as education and childcare, partner employment, and welfare.

Take the survey

All Regular and Reserve Service personnel, and their partners / civil spouses, are encouraged to complete the survey.

Please be assured that survey responses are anonymous.

Survey closes on Saturday 30 August 2025.

Brunei: Treetops Open Day on Tuesday 26th August 2025 has been CANCELLED

Treetops Notice

The Treetops Open Day originally scheduled for Tuesday, 26th August 2025 has been CANCELLED.

Brunei: PCMF - August Health Promotion: Contraception

Contraception

Family planning allows people to attain their desired number of children, if any, and to determine the spacing of their pregnancies. It is achieved through use of contraceptive methods.

Family planning- contraception is widely available and easily accessible through trained health workers to anyone who is sexually active, including adolescents.

There are several types of contraception and depending on what’s important to you, there are few things when deciding which contraception to use.

Some of the things you might want to think about when choosing your contraception are:

• How contraception will suit your lifestyle.

• Whether you want to use the method every day, every time you have sex or less often.

• Whether you want to become pregnant soon, many years away or not at all.

You can always contact GP Seria to consult and explore the appropriate contraceptive method for you.

Contraception services are free and confidential on the NHS. You can get contraception (availability dependant), including emergency contraception for free from our med centre. Contact: 3224893.

SafeLives: Service community domestic abuse - Welfare staff interviews request

SafeLives are also keen to speak with Army Welfare Officers and Unit Welfare Officers who have experience of supporting victim/survivors of domestic abuse. They want to understand your experiences of providing welfare support, and hear your views on the barriers victim/survivors from military families and relationships may face when trying to access help.

If you are interested in taking part in an interview, please scan the QR code on the poster to find out more.

Alternatively click on this link: Army Personnel ABF

SafeLives: Service community domestic abuse victims/survivors interviews request

Survivor Interviews

SafeLives, with support from the Army Benevolent Fund, is looking to improve the domestic abuse response for victim/survivors from serving and veteran families.

SafeLives want to hear directly from victim/survivors who have lived experience of domestic abuse in military families or relationships. Their voices are central to this work.

Victim/survivors who take part will also receive a £25 voucher as a thank you for their time.

If you are interested in taking part in an interview, please scan the QR code on the poster to find out more.

Alternatively click on this link: Survivor ABF

Forces Employment Charity: Job Vacancy in Southern England

🚨Become a Champion for Service Children🚨

Forces Employment Charity are looking for a passionate and motivated Youth Employment Advisor to join their team!

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people from Armed Forces families? 🎓💼

In this rewarding role, you’ll:

✅ Provide 1:1 & group support to young people navigating their #career and #education choices
✅ Work with schools, colleges, and organisations to inspire the next generation
✅ Help break down barriers and open doors to brighter futures
✅ Raise aspirations & build confidence

💡 They are looking for someone compassionate, proactive, and ready to empower service children with the guidance they need to thrive.

Free August webinars from Serve and Protect Credit Union

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

Thu 7th - Eco-Friendly Ways to Save Money

Thu 14th - Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money

Wed 20th - The Road to Financial Resilience: Preparing for the Unexpected

Thu 21st - Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score

Thu 28th - Before You Borrow: Key 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

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment – Child Maintenance Service Enforcement Case Manager, Plymouth

The Department of Work and Pensions has 12 new Child Maintenance Service Enforcement Case Manager Executive Officer opportunities in Plymouth. These are now open for applications until 4 Aug 2025.

Civil Service Jobs link: Child Maintenance Service - Enforcement Case Manager - Plymouth (Ref: 735) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

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

Forces Employment Charity: Empowering You employment workshop - 15 to 17 Sept 2025

Empowering You is a hybrid three-day employability and confidence-building workshop in collaboration with Barclays and Forces Employment Charity

Event Overview

Days 1 and 3 are virtual. On day 2, delegates will be hosted at three Barclays locations (simultaneously). Day 3 you will meet employers online from across industries who value the skills and qualities that people from the Armed Forces Community bring.

Join us in person at one of the illustrious Barclays locations in London, Knutsford or Glasgow.

The event is for military spouses and partners (all genders), ex-military women and reservists.

What can you expect:

Receive a free one-to-one mentoring session with a corporate mentor

1. Hear directly from employers about pathways for the Armed Forces community and regional job opportunities

2. Understand the value that your transferrable skills can bring to employers and gain confidence in yourself

3. Expert sessions delivered by our Families Employment Advisors who are all military spouses or partners with lived experience and who have served too.

Dates and times:

This event takes place on the 15th - 17th September 2025.

Virtual event timings (days 1 and 3): 10:00 – 13.00 (duration may vary due to group sizes)

In-person event timings (day 2): 10.00 – 16.00

Locations on day 2:

Barclays Radbroke Campus – Knutsford WA16 9EU
Barclays Glasgow Campus – 30 Clyde Place, Glasgow, Glasgow G5 8AQ
Barclays Headquarters – 1 Churchill Pl, London E14 5RB

Registration Link and Further Info:

Registration Form

Event Overview

Little Troopers: All together Build-A-Bear workshops on 13 Aug

All Together this Summer!

Little Troopers has once again partnered with Build-A-Bear Workshop to bring a very special experience to military children across the UK this summer!

• Is your little trooper missing a deployed parent? 

If your child has a parent currently deployed, you can apply to attend one of our exclusive group workshops happening nationwide. Each child will have the magical opportunity to create their very own ‘Little Troopers’ bear at Build-A-Bear — a treasured keepsake to hold close while their parent is away.

• A Nationwide Shared Moment

On the same day and at the same time, children in multiple Build-A-Bear locations will come together for this special summer event — a moment of connection and comfort for our military families.

Event Details:

Date: 13th August 2025

Time: Approximately 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Age Group: Military children aged 4–10 years, each accompanied by one adult

Locations: Windsor, Exeter, Edinburgh, Bournemouth, Basingstoke, Southampton, Maidstone, and Newcastle Build-A-Bear Workshops

Apply via the form - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HPKJPVR

Brunei: BFB Road Safety - July 2025

Drink Driving

As Commanders you should be well versed and knowledgeable on the effects of drink driving, having sat on multiple briefs and also maybe seeing it firsthand. We have a lot of young and influential soldiers that may not be fully aware of the dangers associated with drink driving or the consequences that it can have. It is up to us to educate, guide and prevent our SP and their families from taking control of a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol. The following are easy to accomplish and disseminate to your SP and the wider community.

1. Drink-driving penalties - GOV.UK This is UK law on Drink driving, in addition to the penalties the implications of drink driving can be career ending for SP and will negatively affect getting a job on Civi Street.

2. After work drinks survival guide | Drinkaware - this guide is especially prevalent to soldiers and more so Seniors and Officers. It is too easy and accessible to go into the Mess have a few drinks and then drive home. This DEFINITELY should not happen, and mess members should know better.

3. Drink a Little. Risk a Lot. – THINK! - This article highlights the importance of not drink driving - Drink a little. Risk a lot. - An accompanying video.

4. Pint Block – THINK! & Activate Pint Block! – THINK! - A Campaign to get people to stop there friends from drink driving, the campaign has various videos that are designed to assist in persuading your friend not to drink drive.

    a. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Thrash Met-Ale

    b. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Wrap Trap

    c. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Magma

    d. THINK! Don’t Drink Drive 50th Anniversary Advert

5. BFB Drink and Drug Driving Powerpoint - Further advice and possibly delivery on this can be gained by contacting the MT Dept.

Off Duty Safety

Off Duty Safety encompasses everything that has been pushed out especially last month's information. Driving private vehicles, cycling and even being a pedestrian (especially in Brunei) are dangerous activities that can become life changing as victim or as a perpetrator. I implore you to republish the information that has already been released especially the following points.

1. Seat Belts and child restraints - No matter how long the journey all occupants of all vehicles MUST wear a seatbelt.

    a. THINK! Julie Video - GRAPHIC - Consequences of passengers not wearing seatbelts in the car.

    b. Child Restraint Video - Video showing the importance of child restraints and the results of not using them properly.

    c. THINK! Click Campaign - Campaign to encourage people to wear seat belts.

2. Mobile Phones - Do not use your mobile phone while driving it is illegal and life threatening.

    a. THINK! Life Without Zoe -Video - The consequences of using your mobile when driving.

    b. THINK! Hands on the Wheel, Hands off your Phone campaign - Article and handouts to educate.

3. Speeding - Speed Kills

    a. Speed - MtswWeb - MTSR guidance on speeding

    b. Think! Road Safety - Speeders Come Out Of Nowhere (2020) - 30 sec 

    c. Live With It- TV ad for speeding

4. Driving Conditions - This is very important here in Brunei but prevalent in the UK as well. Brunei has very heavy rain that comes and goes and the UK has an ever-changing weather cycle that effect road surface conditions and glare. Driving in the rain requires extra caution due to reduced visibility and increased stopping distances. Key actions include slowing down, increasing following distance, using headlights, and avoiding sudden movements.

    a. Advice for driving in heavy rain and floods | RAC Drive

5. Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain:

    a. Reduce Speed - Decrease your speed to maintain better control and reduce the risk of hydroplaning, where tires lose contact with the road surface.

    b. Increase Following Distance - Allow for extra space between your vehicle and the one in front, as braking distances are significantly longer in wet conditions.

    c. Use Headlights - Turn on your headlights, even during the day, to enhance visibility for other drivers.

    d. Avoid Sudden Movements - Steer, brake, and accelerate gently to prevent skidding and loss of control.

    e. Check Wipers - Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if necessary.

    f. Be Aware of Standing Water - Avoid driving through deep puddles or standing water, as it can cause hydroplaning or damage your vehicle.

    g. Consider Your Route - Plan your route carefully and be aware of potential hazards like flooded roads.

    h. Don't Use Cruise Control - Avoid using cruise control in wet conditions as it can hinder your ability to react to changing road conditions.

    i. Keep Windows Clear - Use your car's defroster or air conditioning to prevent fogging on the inside of the windshield.

6. Vehicle Maintenance - Look after your vehicle, make regular checks and get things seen by professionals early to reduce costly repair bills. The LAD and Garrison Workshop are always happy to help, if you are not sure please come and see us on Tuker Lines and we will have a look.

    a. BRUNEI HIVE: Private Vehicle Checks - A video has been created by 2 of my VMs guiding people on recommended checks to their own vehicles. It has been published on the HIVE. Along with some other useful information.

    b. Minimum Checks before a long journey and weekly,

    i. Petrol - Has it got the right fuel and enough for your journey

    ii. Oils - Are all the oil levels correct? Engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission oil?

    iii. Water - Is the coolant level correct? REMEMBER DO NOT REMOVE THE COOLANT CAP WHILE ENGINE IS HOT! Have you got enough washer fluid?

    iv. Electrics - Do the lights work properly? Are the switches and buttons working? Are the wipers and washers working?

    v. Rubber - Are your tyres in a good condition? Have you got sufficient tread (Legal Minimum 1.6mm)? Are there any bulges, splits or objects anywhere in the tyre? Are they at the right pressure? All this includes the spare!

Drive Safe!

Brunei: BFB Children's Library - Summer Reading Challenge

Summer Reading Challenge

For more information, please visit our INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK pages or send an email to 

Jeremmie.Tamang111@mod.gov.uk or BruneiGar-Lib-Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Brunei: BFB Library - Book Request Form

Please scan the QR Code above or Click HERE.

Brunei: BFB Library - Do you have any book recommendations/suggestions for the Library

Please scan the QR Code above or Click HERE for survey.

Brunei: BFB Library - Please Remember to Return ALL Books & Donate Old Books

Please click the image to enlarge.

Brunei: BFB Children's Library - Volunteers Needed

Please click the image to enlarge.

For more information, please visit our INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK pages or send an email to 

Jeremmie.Tamang111@mod.gov.uk or BruneiGar-Lib-Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Brunei: BFB Children's Library - Opening Hours and Contact Details

Opening Hours and Contact Information

BFB Library is located at the Chit Chat Community Centre.

Come and check out our new stock!

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram.

ACORN programme run by ManKind for male survivors of domestic abuse who are looking to move on to new relationships

Please click the image to enlarge.

This course has less that six months left to run, so please take full advantage of this opportunity.

ManKind ACORN programme

Please click the link for further info: https://mankind.org.uk/for-professionals/pattern-changing-course-male-survivors/

Give Us Time: Welfare Summer Update

Please click the link for more info: www.giveustime.org.uk

Alternatively follow on social media at https://www.facebook.com/GiveUsTime and https://www.instagram.com/give_us_time/

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Family Focus Programme reopens for applications

When a serving person becomes wounded, injured, or sick, life can change quickly for those around them. Family members might take on the role of primary carer, carrying a heavy emotional and practical load during recovery.

Ongoing support is essential. Its helps carers recognise their own needs and ensure the wellbeing of everyone involved.

In 2024/25, The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) awarded more than £1.3 million to 16 projects under the Family Focus programme to improve the lives of family members of Wounded, Injured or Sick personnel and veterans.

Focus on family members

Today, the Trust are opening this programme and inviting applications for projects that will achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

• Family members of those who are wounded, injured or sick feel better informed and more able to access relevant information, advice and guidance, applicable to their situation.

• Family members of those who are wounded, injured or sick feel less lonely/isolated, more resilient and better equipped to deal with their circumstances.

• Family members of those who are wounded, injured and sick have developed their skills for work, or have greater confidence to pursue volunteering or employment when it's right for them.

Gov.uk: Emergency Alerts Sunday 7 September at 3pm

The UK government is testing the Emergency Alerts system on Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.

Your mobile phone or tablet will vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent. The alert message will confirm this is a test and that you do not need to take any further action.

Regular testing ensures the system is functioning correctly, should it need to be used in a life-threatening emergency. Find out more at gov.uk/alerts.

You can opt out of the Emergency Alerts, including the national test, but you should keep them switched on for your own safety.

Emergency Alerts will warn you via your mobile or tablet if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby. Only the government and the emergency services are able to send them.

There are simple and effective steps we can all take to be more prepared for an emergency. Visit gov.uk/prepare for advice on how you can prepare.

Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF): Carers and Careers Survey

"Are you juggling life in the Armed Forces while caring for someone with additional needs or a disability? Whether you're serving yourself or you're the partner of someone who is, if you're a carer, the Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF) wants to hear from you!"

FANDF is collecting lived experiences through a short survey, and the results will be shared directly with the MOD and policymakers at our next committee meeting.

Complete the survey now—it only takes a few minutes but could help shape the future: https://forms.office.com/e/zT65EDwM9

Hounds for Heroes: Supporting the Armed Forces with Life-Changing Assistance Dogs

Hounds for Heroes – Supporting the Armed Forces with Life-Changing Assistance Dogs

Every day, members of the UK Armed Forces and Emergency Services dedicate themselves to protecting others. At Hounds for Heroes, we believe that when illness or injury makes daily life more difficult for those who’ve served, they deserve steadfast support and a highly trained partner to help them on their journey.

We provide specially trained assistance dogs to those who have served in HM Armed Forces, no matter where, when, or for how long. Whether you served for days, weeks, months or years, you may be eligible. We also support those from the Emergency Services, including the Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard and RNLI.

Our dogs are far more than companions. They are working dogs trained to assist with everyday tasks like opening doors, retrieving dropped items and building confidence in public settings. Just as importantly, they offer loyal companionship and emotional reassurance.

Each dog is carefully matched to their Partner based on individual needs, ensuring a truly life-changing relationship that supports both practical challenges and emotional wellbeing.

Who We Help

We welcome applications from anyone who:

• Is a current or former member of HM Armed Forces or Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard or RNLI)
• Is living with a physical disability caused by illness or injury(this does not need to be directly related to your time in service)

We support a wide range of conditions that affect mobility and independence, including:

• Spinal injuries
• Limb loss or amputation
• Stroke recovery
• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
• Serious illness or injury with lasting physical impact

We understand that the road to recovery and independence can be tough and the last thing we want is for cost to be a barrier. Where needed, Hounds for Heroes can cover the full working life of an assistance dog, including training, equipment, insurance and ongoing support. Each situation is assessed individually and we aim to remove as many barriers as possible.

If you or someone you support could benefit from an assistance dog, we’d love to hear from you. Welfare officers, medical staff and support teams are encouraged to signpost eligible individuals our way. We're here to help.

To learn more or to begin an application, visit: www.houndsforheroes.com or get in touch at: clientapplications@houndsforheroes.com.

Together, we can make a difference.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Covenant Fund programme, Hidden Voices, reopens for applications

Covenant Fund programme, Hidden Voices, reopens for applications

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) has reopened the Hidden Voices programme for applications. This is the second year of this popular programme with funded projects last year supporting:

- veterans in the justice system in

- LGBT+ veterans

- victim-survivors of Military Sexual Violence

- carers in armed forces communities

- foreign & commonwealth personnel

- And more…!

The Hidden Voices programme is about ensuring everyone in the armed forces community feels heard and supported – focusing on those who may not always get the support they need.

Prevention and early-intervention mental health support

This is a mental health and wellbeing programme, specifically for those who have been underserved or who have faced barriers to support when accessing services. These groups are ‘seldom heard’ and may be less represented in mainstream services.

As well as helping people get the support they need, the Trust is looking for projects that will help organisations to learn and share how to better support these groups within the community.

Your project will need to meet both of the following outcomes:

1. Those who are underrepresented, or whose voices are seldom heard, within the armed forces community, have equitable access to mental health and wellbeing support which meets their specific needs.

2. Awareness of the needs of underrepresented groups within the armed forces community has been raised among organisations supporting them, through mutual learning and knowledge exchange to embed best practice.

Partnerships make great projects!

The Trust is looking for collaboration between armed forces and non-armed forces organisations and services. Plus, the voices of your beneficiaries should be at the core of your project, helping to shape things from the very start.

Anna Wright, Chief Executive of the Trust explains: “This is your opportunity to provide tailored support to those who are less heard in our armed forces communities. Their needs might be less well understood or recognised, and the Hidden Voices programme aims to tackle this issue head on.”

What’s available?

Grants of £3,000 to £25,000 are available for projects lasting up to 12 months.

Preston North End Community and Education Trust we’re awarded £19,960 in March this year to provide early-intervention mental health support to older veterans in care homes. While Rees Foundation were awarded £19,767 to support care leavers with access to guidance and resources.

Hamish, one of Rees Foundation’s clients, explained: “Since connecting, I have found so many like-minded people who have spent time like me in the care system and understand the difficulties I experienced. Also having emotional support, having someone to turn to who understands even now the struggles experienced daily is a lifesaver.”

Find out more

So, if you’re a registered charity, CIC or local authority working with under-served groups in the armed forces community. Why not apply?

Full details are available on the Trust’s website and the first of two rounds closes on 1 October 2025.

www.covenantfund.org.uk

Are you on the mailing list?

Did you know the Trust have a newsletter? Get the latest updates and news straight to your inbox via their website www.covenantfund.org.uk

Are you being posted overseas? Our Overseas and iHIVE Blogs hold information on your new location

Please click the image to enlarge.

You will find information, including comprehensive Location Guides – plus our local office’s contact details – on our Overseas Blogs at:

Belgium (SHAPE)
Brunei
Brunssum
Cyprus
Gibraltar
Naples
Sennelager

For those posted elsewhere, anywhere in the rest of the World, our tri-Service iHIVE covers the area.

The iHIVE Blog hosts around 100 Overseas Location Guides that can be viewed or downloaded from our iHIVE Blog: https://internationalhive.blogspot.com/ with more being added routinely. These can also be accessed (by MODnet users) through the Army HIVE SharePoint site Overseas Postings area.

Most importantly, our iHIVE is also available to answer any enquiries about any overseas location worldwide, whether you are in the Royal Navy/RM, RAF, Army or civilian Service communities - please get in touch with any questions you may have.

iHIVE is listed in the Overseas Supportability Checklist as an action for any Service person/family assigned overseas, in order to check that local services, amenities and facilities meet each individual and family’s needs.

Our poster has iHIVE’s contact details, or get in touch by email: RC-Pers-HIVE-iHIVE-0Mailbox (MULTIUSER) RC-Pers-HIVE-iHIVE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Brunei: AWS Community Support - Summer Programme

Please see above posters outlining our Summer Programme. These can be booked using the QR codes above or following this link.

Please click here for additional information on Summer Programme. 

Here's the link for annual registration. 

Brunei: Nag Panchami Puja - Tuesday, 29th July 2025, 0930 hrs @ BFB Temple

BFB TEMPLE SERVICE – NAAG PANCHAMI POOJA

BLUF. As per the Nepalese calendar and the BG Religious Festivals FOE 2025/26, the Naag Panchami Pooja will take place on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 at the BFB Temple.

Details:

Timing: The Pooja will commence at 0930hrs. Please be seated by 0925hrs. The ceremony will last approximately 30 minutes.

Dress: Working or casual attire (Ladies: Comfortable).

Attendance: All available BFB personnel and SPs (less those on leave or duties), including their families, are warmly invited to attend.

Significance of Naag Panchami. Naag Panchami, often referred to as the Snake Festival, holds deep spiritual and religious significance. Beyond honouring snakes, the festival symbolises respect for life, air, and energy—essential elements of existence. It reminds us of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of unity with celestial creatures. Traditionally, a picture of the Naag is placed on the main door of residences as a gesture of reverence and gratitude.

Brunei: Panaga Club Information - Panaga Stingrays - Summer Camps 2025

Please click the link for the sign up for Stingrays swim camps https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdfTrN4HytEbH6BHdg2Eeo6C8vFZQnbIr83xNpj1B2n_Y6M6Q/viewform.

 Alternatively follow the stingrays instagram page @panagastingrays or pop into the club for more information. 

Refer & Reward

Water Sports Activities

Online Payment Tool

Did you know that paying your bills online is super-efficient and convenient?

No more long queues or rushing to beat the closing time!

Online payment option to pay club fees can be accessed via this LINK.

This link is now also on each member’s Statement of Account, accessible via a QR code as shown below.

Please Click HERE to watch the video on how you can breeze through your payments with just a few clicks!

Panaga Club members can contact the Member Services Hotline: +673 745 2265 for general queries or Finance Hotline: +673 725 2442 for billing/payment queries.

                                Please click on the image to enlarge.

MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES

Contact No: (+673) 337 2265 (Tika) / (+673) 337 2930 (Janice)

E-mail: memberservices@panagaclub.com / limjsy@panagaclub.com

Contact