Grand Reopening - Ay Nik Thrift Shop!

 

Akrotiri Library videogame rental

 

Akrotiri Christmas Closure

 

Domestic Abuse: MOD Guidance on Where to Find Help

Defence Infrastructure Organisation’s (DIO) compensation schemes

When things go wrong​

Pinnacle administer the Defence Infrastructure Organisation’s (DIO) compensation schemes. You may be entitled to compensation under one of DIO’s compensation schemes if you have experienced;

​Missed appointments

Incorrect Tradesperson

Failed move in

Total loss of heating/cooking facilities

Hotel subsistence

Claims must be submitted within 28 days of the date the issue occurred.

​More information is available HERE

Community Badminton - Akrotiri

 

Blind Veterans UK - December newsletter

Welcome to your Blind Veterans UK December update!

Season's greetings. As we prepare to celebrate with our veterans we reflect on what a fantastic year 2023 has been - all thanks to our supporters.

This update shares some of our favourite highlights from the year, illustrating how you make a difference to blind veterans and how Aldershot Hive can get involved in 2024.

Please click here to read more.

 

Defence People Communications: What support is there for Service families facing domestic abuse?

 Find out about the domestic abuse support available for Service families.

As part of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence campaign, Defence is encouraging anyone affected by domestic abuse to ask for help and to be aware of the different ways to get support.

Armed forces families play a crucial role in Defence and should feel safe and supported. When it comes to domestic abuse, there are many support services available to them – both within Defence and at a local and national level.

To help more people get the help they need, it’s also important to understand what might be stopping them from seeking support.

There are multiple and very valid reasons as to why domestic abuse victims-survivors can be reluctant to ask for support, particularly in close knit Defence communities. Most victims-survivors live with their abuser, some aren’t aware that they are being abused, and others might fear the repercussions of seeking support. There are also many who don’t know about the support that exists.

Breaking down some of these barriers 

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender + people may face more barriers to getting support, including discrimination and fears about disclosing their sexuality. Galop is a national LGBT domestic abuse charity that offers confidential, emotional support and information.

Men might not reach out to support services as they might think it’s for women only, or they may worry that they won’t be taken seriously. Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, and everyone in the Defence community will be supported and treated with respect.

Armed forces support exists on many levels

In a military context, there can be a perception that support services are only for the Service person and not the whole family. As explained below, many support services also help armed forces family members.

Service families can receive initial support and signposting from unit support staff, who understand the dynamics of abuse and have knowledge of local support services.

Specialist welfare support refers to the Army Welfare Service, Naval Service Family and People Support, and the RAF Personal Support and Social Work Service. These services are confidential and independent of the Chain of Command. For a list of services and contact details, visit GOV.UK.

These specialist welfare services provide a variety of support to Service personnel and their families, including making referrals to external specialist services. There is also support for those who recognise their behaviour is abusive and want to change.

Armed forces family members can report domestic abuse to Service Police. The Victim Witness Care Unit then provides support to victims-survivors of domestic abuse during their journey through the Service Justice System. To find out what happens when a report of domestic abuse is made to the Service Police, read the Service Police’s leaflet.

Not sure what support you need? 

The support services mentioned can help victims-survivors to find out what kind of support they need and can help with planning next steps.

A list of support services and contact details, inside and outside of Defence, can be found in the JSP 913: Whole Force Policy on Domestic Abuse.

These support services have skilled staff in place who understand the significant challenges that victims-survivors face in reaching out for support and the courage required to do this.

So, if you have any questions about the support options available within Defence or need further information, contact the MOD Safeguarding policy team: People-AFFS-Safeguarding-Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Useful links:

·         Domestic abuse – how and where to get help

·         Domestic abuse support and guidance for the armed forces community

Domestic abuse support organisations and external charities

Tickets for Troops: Fundraising Prize Draw for Bruce Springsteen Concert Cardiff May 25

Tickets for Troops are organizing a special prize draw, where the prize is a pair of front pitch standing tickets to see the legendary Bruce Springsteen in concert at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on May 5th 2024. All funds raised in the draw will go towards building a new Tickets For Troops website. To enter the prize draw please go to this LINK

DIO Families First newsletter - issue 11

Please follow Link for access to DIO Families First newsletter - Issue 11

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/defence-infrastructure-organisation-service-family-accommodation 

DWP - Benefit Payment Dates December

DWP Benefit payment dates over Christmas are as follows:

Payments due 25-26 December will be paid on Friday 22 December.

Payments due 27 December: Universal Credit paid as normal, all other benefits paid on Friday 22 December.

Payments due 1 January will be paid on Friday 29 December.

New Video Games at Akrotiri Library

 

Recruit for Spouses Career Academy: ACCESS Programme online information sessions Dec & Jan

What can ACCESS do for you …..Come and meet some of the JPMorgan team keen to understand your employment challenges and to talk about a new programme they hope will overcome some of these. 

ACCESS will create a platform alongside other key partners to provide valuable insights, resources, and strategies enabling you to overcome unique challenges and achieve career success in whatever you choose. 

Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and ask as many questions as you want to the team to understand the programme and make sure it's right for you.  The specific programme details will be shared at this meeting.  We are running 3 sessions so hope you can fit one in your schedule!

14^th December 12.00-13.00pm zoom link https://jpmchase.zoom.us/j/98918277514

                        20.00-21.00pm zoom link https://jpmchase.zoom.us/j/94689325754

11^th January    12.00-13.00pm zoom link https://jpmchase.zoom.us/j/91982944111

Serve & Protect Credit Union - Online Webinars

 

Serve and Protect Credit Union are hosting a range of free financial webinars during December 2023 and January 2024, covering topics such as:

 

• Budgeting & Spending
• Boosting Credit Score
• Managing the Cost of Living
• What Lenders are looking for
  
  

You can view and register for our webinars at - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/serve-and-protect-credit-union-53580404643

Places are limited and are on a first come first basis

 

ManKind Initiative ACORN Recovery Programme for male survivors of domestic abuse

Nitrous Oxide

Following a change to UK law, Nitrous Oxide (also known as laughing gas) has been classified as a Class C controlled drug. Further information is available at this link: https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/.../media-fact-sheet.../

If you wish to report a crime, whether in the UK or overseas, you can contact the Service Police Crime Bureau on (+44) 02392 285 170 or 02392 285 180.

DWP Conversational Platform

Conversational Platform is a new technology being introduced onto the Universal Credit telephony channel. From early December 2023 when customers call Universal Credit, their call may be routed through the new technology, whereby the DWP Virtual Agent will ask the customer why they are calling and will then tailor the response based on what the customer says.

DWP Conversational Platform

Latest Going Forward Into Employment Vacancies

New roles for Veterans, Service Leavers and Military Spouses available within DWP in the following locations – Ilford in London and Kilmarnock in Scotland

Vacancy details and application form attached.

For more details see Visit the Blog to find out more about our work.​

Eol Form

Veterans - GFIE- 281_ PC Interventions Case

Cleanse Officer - DWP - Kilmarnock.docx

Veterans - GFIE- 280_ Intervention Administrative

Officer - DWP - Ilford.docx

Veterans Housing - Armed Forces Covenant Trust Fund

New major funding programme to support Veterans’ housing needs

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (The Trust) is delighted to announce a new, major grants programme supporting new builds and significant refurbishment, including extensions, of rental accommodation offering high quality support for Veterans with a housing need.
On behalf of the Office of Veterans’ Affairs, the Trust will award grants of £75K to £500K under the Major Capital Grants programme, across four rounds of funding, to projects that contribute to the aims of the Government’s ambition to reduce Veteran homelessness and end rough sleeping.

Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund
The Major Capital Grants programme is the latest programme to launch under the Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund. It is open to charities and registered social housing providers (registered social landlords in Scotland), with at least five years’ housing experience. To be eligible for this funding, you’ll need to show that most of your organisation’s work is with Veterans, or that you have extensive experience of working with Veterans.

FAQ - Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust - Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund

The Major Capital Grants programme is the latest programme to launch under the Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund.

More information is available HERE

DIO - Families First Newsletter issue 10

Families First newsletter – issue: 10

Issue 10 of the Families First newsletter was published on 31 October. You can find it on Defence Connect or GOV.uk 

It includes:

• Performance update on accommodation contracts
• Tackling Damp and Mould Programme in SFA – an update
• Winter safety guide
• Key dates to note
• Useful links

Accommodation provided by MOD for ARAP Afghan Families

MOD bullying, harrassment and discrimination helpline

You can also access support by visiting the Workplace Wellbeing Platform at MOD | (workplacewellbeing.com)

AWS Community Support Annual Report Summary

NHS Armed Forces Health Podcast

Welcome to the NHS Armed Forces Health Podcast, a six part series aims to help you, the Armed Forces Community, access the NHS services available. Released every Wed on YouTube.

Exploring the Employment Experiences of Spouses/Partners of British Armed Forces Personnel

More information is available HERE​ or Click ​to access the Survey​.

Veterans’ Foundation Reopens Applications for 2024 Projects Across UK

To find out more information click HERE

2024 Civilian Housing Briefs from Defence Transition Services

Updated Tri-service accommodation regs (TSARs) JSP 464

The recently updated Tri-Service Accommodation Regulations, (JSP 464) are available on .Gov at the following Link:

Tri-service accommodation regulations (TSARs) (JSP 464) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Widening Accommodation Entitlement Limited Locations (WAE(LL))

The Widening Accommodation Entitlement Limited Locations (WAE(LL)) SWAY now includes information on NEW Allowances. If you are being posted to one of the limited locations click this link to find out more: Widening Accommodation Entitlement (Limited Locations) Including NEW Allowances (office.com)

​Socials (incl link to Sway as above):
X.com “Widening Accommodation Entitlement Limited Locations (WAE(LL)) now including NEW Allowances. Click the link below to find out more about WAE(LL)"
Facebook “Widening Accommodation Entitlement Limited Locations (WAE(LL)) now including NEW Allowances. If you are being posted to one of the limited locations click the link below to find out more"

Are you a veteran? Share your views now!

The Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA) have launched a new consultation to gather evidence on the experience of Armed Forces Veterans.

If you are a veteran or the family member of a veteran, visit GOV.UK​ for further information and details of how to respond to the survey before it closes on 4 January 2024.

Centrica - New Job Roles

Centrica currently have a huge drive for customer service vacancies, and state: “At Centrica we embrace diversity and actively seek to attract individuals with unique backgrounds and perspectives. To build a more sustainable future, we need the best team – a team with a diverse mix of people and skills, where everyone feels welcome and able to succeed. We are dedicated in helping to close the diversity gap and would love to see more females, people of colour and LGBTQ+ employees, as well as those from a variety of cultures and ethnicity to veterans and the differently abled. Supporting diversity and inclusion is a big part of who we are, we are not looking for people to fit into our culture but to add to it!”

New job roles being recruited include:

https://www.centrica.com/job/?jobreference=R0050191&t=2 Leicester

https://www.centrica.com/job/?jobreference=R0050521&t=2 Stockport

https://www.centrica.com/job/?jobreference=R0046093&t=2 Brighton​

To search all roles please go to: Careers | Centrica plc

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: New fund to support Veterans’ and their families’ employability

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) is delighted to announce the launch of the The Veterans’ Career Development Fund, supporting Veterans and their families to enter stable long-term employment, by delivering qualifications and training.

Under this new Fund, the Trust will award grants on behalf of the Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA) towards projects that help Veterans, and their families achieve recognised qualifications, which help them access employment that matches their skills and interests.

It will do this by supporting experienced organisations which can create and promote opportunities for Veterans and their families looking to enter employment. This includes those already in employment who aspire to progress in their careers, to acquire, or work towards acquiring, supplementary qualifications, technical training and skills.

Victory Services Club: October Newsletter & Club Talk Magazine

The October Newsletter and Club Talk magazine for the Victory Services Club is now available here

Free Level 2 courses - RACPD

There are several providers who offer free Level 2 courses and RACPD are one of the companies offering these opportunities.

The courses are open to all and are completed online so could be beneficial for any member of your military family.

This is a great opportunity with no cost involved, just time. Each course is to be completed within 12 weeks, but they are a great starting point for anyone who has an interest in a particular topic which could lead them on to higher qualifications, whether they are at the starting point of learning, or considering a change in career…..

SSAFA Forcesline

 

Families First newsletter - issue 10

The latest edition of Families First newsletter is now available - please click here

Additional information about Service Family Accommodation can also be found on the gov.uk website - please click here

Long Term Relationships to benefit from Widening Accommodation Entitlement

On 19 September 2023, Minister for Defence People, Veterans, and Service Families, Dr Andrew Murrison, announced the Widening Accommodation Entitlement Limited Locations (WAE(LL)) at eight selected sites across the UK and Northern Ireland. 

* RMB Norton Manor

* RNAS Yeovilton

* Leuchars Station

* JHC FS Aldergrove

* Palace Barracks Holywood

* Thiepval Barracks Lisburn

* RAF Cosford

* RAF Shawbury

This is a first step in meeting the commitment made in the Defence Accommodation Strategy (2022) to allocate accommodation to personnel in Established Long Term Relationships LTR(E) on the same basis as those who are cohabiting or married.

More information is available here

International HIVE (iHIVE): Now Included in the Overseas Location Compatibility Checklist

Did you know that contacting iHIVE is now listed in the 'key actions to be taken' on the Overseas Location Compatibility Checklist?

For Service personnel and families moving overseas, the Overseas Location Compatibility Checklist provides an initial list of personal and domestic factors to be considered pre-application for an overseas assignment, to determine the suitability of the overseas location, for the Service person and their immediate/close family.​​

For more information on this, or for any questions you may have on any location worldwide, contact iHIVE via RC-Pers-HIVE-iHIVE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk or +44 (0)7976 69 8527. 

You can also find ​the iHIVE Blog at: https://internationalhive.blogspot.com/

SSAFA Community Connection Champions

Forces Employment Charity: Career Change & Apprenticeships Event - Andover, 21 Nov

FACEBOOK
The Forces Employment Charity is hosting a transformative career change and apprenticeship event that's tailor-made for the entire military family 👪
They will be bringing employers from tech to nursing and everything in between all under one roof to discuss the exciting apprenticeship and career change opportunities in their area.

Come along and network, explore possibilities and demystify your future 🔎

Brought to by @Forces Employment Charity, Test Valley Borough Council and Andover Leisure Centre.

Find out more 👉  https://loom.ly/7Bk8LFo

📅 21.11.2023
⏰ 10:00 - 14:00
📍 Andover Leisure Centre, West Street, Andover, SP10 1QP

#MilitaryFamily #MilitaryChild #MilitarySpouse #Veterans #Apprenticeships #CareerChange

INSTAGRAM
The Forces Employment Charity is hosting a transformative career change and apprenticeship event that's tailor-made for the entire military family 👪
They will be bringing employers from tech to nursing and everything in between all under one roof to discuss the exciting apprenticeship and career change opportunities in their area.

Come along and network, explore possibilities and demystify your future 🔎

Brought to by @Forces Employment Charity, Test Valley Borough Council and Andover Leisure Centre.

Find out more 👉  forcesemploymentcharity.org.uk

📅 21.11.2023

⏰ 10:00 - 14:00

📍 Andover Leisure Centre, West Street, Andover, SP10 1QP

#MilitaryFamily #MilitaryChild #MilitarySpouse #Veterans #Apprenticeships #CareerChange

TWITTER
@ForcesEmployment is hosting a transformative #CareerChange and #apprenticeship event that's tailor-made for the entire #MilitaryFamily 👪

Come along and network, explore possibilities and demystify your future 🔎

Find out more 👉 https://loom.ly/7Bk8LFo

Museum of Army Flying: Free Admission Offers

For further information please go to: https://armyflying.com/

Historic Royal Palaces -£1 tickets for those o Universal Credit or other named benefits

From 21 October 2023, £1 tickets for a day visit to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace will be available to anyone in receipt of the following:​​

• Universal Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Pension Credit
• Employment and Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Jobseeker’s Allowance

You can claim £1 tickets for up to six people per household. Only one person per household needs to show supporting documents.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/one-pound-tickets/#gs.74u117

Togetherall: How to manage feelings of loneliness and isolation

Is loneliness the new normal? With our means of connection changing over the last few years, we can all find ourselves feeling lonely at times.

Check out this blog by @Togetherall's Chief Clinical Officer, Ben Locke, PHD., where he provides his tips for dealing with feelings of loneliness and isolation.

✅ Togetherall is FREE to anyone in the UK Military, Veterans & Family members aged 16+​

https://tinyurl.com/48m6m5pd

Pinnacle Group SFA Winter Tips: Going Away for October Half Term

If you're going away over half term, why not leave a key with a trusted friend or neighbour so they can check on your home to reduce the risk of something going wrong?

​If any issues do arise, contact the Helpdesk on 0800 031 8628 or visit https://www.pinnacleservicefamilies.co.uk/​​

MOD Accommodation Team Furniture Research - Register interest

Updated HIVE locations map: UK + all Overseas Blogs

​                                                 Our map has been updated.

Forces Family Support: Are You Affected by A Loved One’s Harmful Use of Alcohol, Drugs or Gambling?