Friday, 24 October 2025
DIO SFA Communications Update: 23 Oct – Defence Homes Colour Palette
As part of their commitment to modernise outdated policies and give Service families more freedoms, DIO has introduced a new Defence Homes Colour Palette. And they say:
“We understand that being able to personalise your home is important. Whilst previously all interior walls had to be returned to magnolia or white before moving out, our new colour palette offers a broader range of colours for families to choose from.
“Colours within this range are light and neutral and will not require reverting to white. Take a look at our new colour palette along with some inspiration on how they could be styled in your home here.
“To give you as much freedom as possible, we haven’t dictated particular paint brands, colour names or types (like matt or silk). If you’re unsure whether your chosen colour complies with the approved range on the colour palette, you can check with your dedicated Housing Officer.
“As always, you are welcome to paint your interior walls other colours outside of the new palette range, but these will require reverting back to white upon move out.
“More information on this new policy, including a Top Tips guide for painting the interior of your SFA, can be found on the Defence Homes website. This includes helpful guidance on everything from choosing the right type of paint for a room to prepping the walls and aftercare.”
Defence Update: Almost £1 million awarded to projects that support Service partners
Almost £1 million awarded to projects that support Service partners
The Supporting Partners Programme 2025/26 awards almost £1 million to projects that empower Service partners to thrive.
A further 17 projects have been awarded almost £1 million (www) to help promote skills and experience in the workplace, enhance access to vital services, and improve wellbeing.
Compared to last year, this year’s Supporting Partners Fund allocated over 20% more funding to projects and received more overseas applications than ever before.
Bigger budget, bigger impact
Here are some of the important projects that have been awarded grants in the latest round of funding under the Supporting Partners Programme.
AI training initiative to bring new opportunities to partners, worldwide
The British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS) (www) provides a range of media outlets and events for British forces and their families. Supporting Partners Funding will help to deliver an online and in person training programme for Service partners, worldwide.
The programme aims to equip Service partners with skills and confidence to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their everyday lives and work. This will help open new opportunities for employment, self-employment and further education.
Building futures through business support
Enterprise Pathways for Forces Partners is a comprehensive business start-up support programme delivered by X-Forces Enterprise (www), for Service partners.
This programme offers specialist guidance tailored to individual business ideas, for those in the UK, overseas bases, and online.
Supporting partners across Wales
Adferiad (www) is a member-led charity that campaigns for and provides services to people affected by mental ill health, drug or alcohol use, gambling harms, and other challenging circumstances.
The charity has been awarded a grant to deliver an 18-month, Wales-wide programme aimed at supporting partners with volunteering and employment.
There are 14 more projects which have been awarded funding – all just as important and dedicated to improving the experience of life for Service partners. Read about all 17 projects (www) and the impact they will make.
What is the Supporting Partners Programme?
Armed Forces (Regular and Reserve) partners make incredible sacrifices and face unique demands. Whether it’s relocating from loved ones, dealing with the emotional impact of separation or navigating employment.
The Supporting Partners Programme recognises the crucial role and impact of Service partners and provide grants to help serving partners to navigate the challenges that can come with Service life.
The programme is part of the Armed Forces Families and Safeguarding (AFFS) Armed Forces Families Fund (AF3) – funded by Defence and managed on Defence’s behalf by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
This programme supports the MOD UK Armed Forces Families Strategy 2022 – 32 (www) by funding projects which address challenges faced by Service families.
What’s new for 2025/26?
Building on last year’s success, the programme expanded eligibility for Overseas projects and increased the funding limit to £70,000 per project. This year, there were 43 applications from the UK, and more overseas applications than ever before.
Recognising the complexity and diversity of challenges that partners may face with Service life, the programme awarded applications that align with the UK Armed Forces Families Strategy more broadly.
To receive funding, projects had to demonstrate how they support one or more of the following outcomes:
- Improving mental health and wellbeing of Service partners, with consideration to modern family dynamics.
- Promoting greater understanding of the unique challenges faced by Service partners among Service providers and employers.
- Improving access to support for Service partners, including non-UK nationals.
- Increase the skills and confidence of Service partners through additional opportunities to explore new ways of working and/or to change careers.
Stop Loan Sharks: WhatsApp Launch & Lets Talk About Loan Sharks online presentations
📱 Stop Loan Sharks is now on WhatsApp!
You can now access support or report illegal money lending quickly and confidentially by messaging the team on 07700 102773. This new service is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and all messages are treated in confidence.
Outside those times, you can still reach the team by calling the 24/7 helpline 0300 555 2222 or visiting stoploansharks.co.uk
Let’s help protect our communities - please share this with anyone who might need support.
Let's Talk about Loan Sharks explores why 1.08 million people are turning to loan sharks. With the rise in cost of living, job loss, gambling debts, illness and increased pay day lending, more and more people are turning to loan sharks. In the Army it is known as “Double Bubble” However, lending money without the correct permission required by the Financial Services and Markets Act is illegal.
Let's Talk about Loan Sharks provides useful information, guidance and support to help us help those who might be struggling. No registration needed and you can join via laptop or mobile.
29 Oct 25 1200- 1300 TEAMS link to join here Meeting ID: 377 727 192 932 6 / Passcode: et3KX2Mo
Alternatively dial in by phone: +44 20 3443 8728,,847358711# Phone conference ID: 847 358 711#
05 Nov 25 1200 - 1300 TEAMS link to join here Meeting ID: 340 057 025 199 4 / Passcode: cZ7dZ9iJ
Alternatively dial in by phone +44 20 3443 8728,,536765765# Phone conference ID: 536 765 765#
If you or someone you know needs help, call Stop Loan Sharks on the confidential support line 0300 555 2222 or via WhatsApp on 07700 102773.
Search this database to see if a money lender is legal.
Social Media hashtags: #StopLoanSharks #SupportWhenYouNeedIt
Wednesday, 22 October 2025
ESBA Parkrun hits 100!
This Saturday (25th October) marks a huge milestone for the parkrun as it is the ESBA Parkrun’s 100th event!
To celebrate the big 100, there will be bacon, sausage, egg and hash brown baps, plus chocolate brownies, cookies, cold and hot drinks waiting at the finish line.
So whether you’re volunteering, running, walking (or recovering from Pickle Night), come down and be part of the milestone fun.
When: Saturday morning 08:00 sharp - on the start line by 0759
Where: ESBA course start point behind the UAO
Note - Mercury Barracks station passes will be required for access.
Centrica 2026 Kitchen Appliance Engineer Traineeship opportunities open!
Centrica have a new traineeship opportunity opening 2026, application being taken now:
Trainee Kitchen Appliance Engineer, Flexible | We're energising a greener, fairer future
Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: New awards to support for serving families facing separation challenges
Military life can put a significant strain on the family unit, and service-related separation can play a key role. Maintaining a balanced home life through frequent periods apart is a challenge that many armed forces families face, and one which can cause feelings of anxiety, stress and loneliness.
Give Us Time & Walling2Recovery Spring 2026 dates now available
Give Us Time are teaming up with Walling2Recovery again for spring 2026 to provide a brand new opportunity for Forces families!
Hounds for Heroes - Autumn Newsletter
To view the Hounds for Heroes Autumn newsletter, please go to: Autumn Newsletter - 2025
To find out more about the Hounds for Heroes mission and their work, please visit: Homepage | Hounds for Heroes
Serve and Protect Credit Union - 10 Years of Supporting the Armed Forces
Last week marked a special milestone for us at Serve and Protect Credit Union. On Wednesday, 15th October 2025, we proudly celebrate ten years of providing dedicated armed forces support to service personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families.
Tuesday, 21 October 2025
Centrica 2026 recruitment opportunities open!
Centrica have various apprenticeships planned for 2026! Recruitment adverts are out now, and anybody who is looking for a new career should apply now!
Each advert has the locations for recruitment, and throughout the year they will be refreshed with new locations.
Links to the current adverts are below:
Apprentice Electrician:
Apprentice Electrician, Flexible / Berkshire / Nottinghamshire / Bedfordshire / Vale of Glamorgan / Merseyside / East Dunbartonshire / Leicestershire / Glasgow / Hertfordshire / Aberdeenshire / Greater London / Wiltshire / Gloucestershire / Essex / West Dunbartonshire / Staffordshire | We're energising a greener, fairer future
Apprentice Gas Smart Metering Engineer:
Smart Metering Apprentice, UK - Field Based (Engineers) / Greater London | We're energising a greener, fairer future
Apprentice Gas Heating Installation Engineer:
Apprentice Heating Installation Engineer, UK - Field Based (Engineers) | We're energising a greener, fairer future
Nominations Open for the 2026 Celebrating Forces Families Awards
The Celebrating Forces Families Awards are delighted to announce that nominations for the 2026 ceremony are now officially open!
These national awards honour the exceptional contributions of UK Armed Forces families, recognising the strength, resilience, and dedication of those who support our military personnel behind the scenes. Whether through personal achievement, community impact, or professional excellence, these families play a vital role in the life of the Armed Forces.
"Forces families are the unsung heroes of our military community. These awards are about giving them the recognition they truly deserve and showcasing the incredible ways they contribute to the fabric of Armed Forces life."
Award Categories for 2026 Include:
- Inspirational Adult Family Member of the Year
- Young People’s Award
- Overcoming Adversity
- Volunteer of the Year
- Away From Home Award
- Social Media Influencer
- Military Family Charity
- Armed Forces Advocate(s) of the Year
- Small Business Owner
- Public Service Award
- Business Award
Claire Lilly, winner of the 2024 Inspirational Family Member of the Year award, shared:
"Being recognised by the Celebrating Forces Families Awards was deeply humbling. My campaign, The Forcer Protocol, was born from personal tragedy, but this award reminded me that even in grief, we can create something powerful to help others. It gave me hope — and a platform to make real change for vulnerable veterans and their families."
Key Information:
- Nominations are open now
- Deadline for submissions: Monday 15th December
- How to nominate: https://www.celebratingforcesfamilies.co.uk/nominate
Finalists will be selected by a panel of judges from across the military, charity, and public sectors, and honoured at a prestigious awards ceremony in April 2026.
Whether you're part of a Forces family or know someone who deserves to be celebrated, we encourage you to get nominating and help us shine a light on the people who serve in their own unique way.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Celebrating Forces Families Awards 2026 offers a unique opportunity for businesses and organisations to show their support for the Armed Forces community. By becoming a sponsor, you can align your brand with a prestigious event that honours the resilience, achievements, and contributions of military families across the UK.
Sponsorship packages are available at various levels, offering benefits such as brand visibility, networking opportunities, and recognition during the awards ceremony. Whether you're a small business or a large corporation, your support can make a meaningful impact.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how to get involved, please visit our website or contact the awards team directly at: info@celebratingforcesfamilies.co.uk
Akrotiri Market
Saturday 8 November, AKI Market/Car Boot.
Sign up on the Face Book page; Akrotiri Community Group.
Akrotiri Panto.
Save the date;
Saturday 6th December
1500 hrs - Family Show
1700 hrs - Family Show
1930 hrs - Adult Show
Akrotiri Pantomime - Held in The Astra Theatre
Fancy a different kind of Works Christmas Party the adult show might be a great idea!
Monday, 20 October 2025
Episkopi: An Evening Under the Stars
* Episkopi Services Sailing Club, Tunnel Beach
*1st November | 17:00 – 21:00
* BBQ ready from 17:00
* Join them for a magical evening of stargazing and fun!
They'll have one telescope set up for everyone to use, but feel free to bring your own if you have one! Learn about the night sky with a short lesson and activity led by Barry, and children will receive a certificate once they’ve completed it.
Scouts can also earn a special stargazing badge!
There will be quizzes, colouring sheets, and puzzles to keep everyone entertained.
BBQ is on – bring your own meat, they'll bring the heat!
Bar open (cash only) all evening.Come along, look up, and enjoy a relaxed evening under the Milky Way. Free entry — all ages welcome!
Episkopi: Community notice - Upcoming Works
Main Gym Hall Sports Floor (from Monday, 20 October 2025))
Please be advised that essential work on the main gym hall sports floor will begin on Monday, 20 October 2025.
During this period, the main hall will be out of bounds and unavailable for use until the works are fully completed. The estimated timeframe for completion is approximately 7–8 weeks.
While this area is closed, please note the following:
- The weights room and upstairs CV area will remain open as usual.
- Half of the S&C area (at the back of the gym) will also remain open.
- Access to the S&C area will be available only via the rear entrance, located by the main car park.
They appreciate your understanding and cooperation while these improvements are carried out. If you have any questions or queries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me directly.
Friday, 17 October 2025
Update from GOV.UK: Digital version of Veteran Card launched for quicker and easier access to support
From today, Friday 17 October, it will give veterans a seamless way to confirm their status in person and will include information already featured on their physical card - displaying their name, photo, latest service, and date of birth with the security features that protect their personal information.
Veterans can now apply for and download a digital version of the Veteran Card on their smartphone.
From registering with GPs to housing support and discounted entry to museums, the card will ensure veterans can access services quickly and easily online.
Part of the blueprint for modern digital government, as government makes public services simpler and more accessible so they work around people’s lives as part of the Plan for Change.
To view the news update in full, please go to this LINK
Thursday, 16 October 2025
BFBS to Launch First-Ever AI Skills Programme Exclusively for Military Partners
The programme, which will be the first of its kind and part of the BFBS Academy, launches in January 2026. It will combine flexible online learning that participants can complete in their own time, in addition to monthly live evening webinars and four one-off in-person workshops across Cyprus, Catterick, Blandford, and Edinburgh. The entire programme will be fully funded by the grant.
Jackie Collins, Head of Social Media at BFBS (Academy & Creative) who is leading this initiative and will oversee the programme’s delivery said: “The grant is a game-changer for military partners. With so much hype and confusion around AI, this innovative course will focus on delivering practical skills that cut through the noise, giving participants the confidence and knowledge to explore new job opportunities, develop careers or take businesses to the next level.”
Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Almost £1 Million awarded to support more partners of serving personnel
Behind every serving member, whether regular or reserve, is a network of loved ones who quietly support from the sidelines. But for the partners, life in the armed forces can set unique challenges such as relocations, career disruptions, isolation, and the emotional toll from long separations.
Delivered on behalf of the MOD and designed specifically with service partners in mind, the Armed Forces Families Fund: Supporting Partners programme provides tailored solutions and dedicated support to help navigate the demands of service life. It recognises that while service members wear the uniform, their partners also serve in their own way – often by juggling family life, careers, and personal wellbeing.
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) has supported a further 17 projects in the latest funding round, worth almost £1 million to projects that aim to improve the overall provision of support available to partners of serving personnel. Whether it’s promoting skills and experience in the workplace, enhancing access to vital services, or improving wellbeing – these projects are committed to empowering partners to thrive.
MOD Update: Credit union service for Defence people celebrates 10-year anniversary
Credit union service for Defence people celebrates 10-year
anniversary
This month marks 10 years since the launch of Joining Forces – the collaboration of three credit unions, established to help Service
Personnel and Defence civil servants save regularly and borrow responsibly.
Wednesday, 15 October 2025
Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Latest funding helps change the narrative for servicewomen
As of April 2025, women represented 11.9% of the UK regular armed forces; however, many still describe it as a ‘man’s world’.
From ill-fitting uniform to availability of sanitary products; a lack of recognition of the role many servicewomen play as main caregiver to their family, to a lack of understanding of the symptoms of menopause. Applications to the Trust’s servicewomen-focused programme made it clear that change is needed.
Relate at Family Action: Four new job vacancies, UK Home-based with travel
1597 Practice Manager
1598 Business Performance Lead
1599 Head of Training and Consultancy
1600 National and Local Accounts Manager
Relate is now part of Family Action, and they continue to extend the charity’s services across the UK.
The closing date for all roles is Tuesday 28th October at 23:59.
Episkopi: Early Years September Newsletter
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Mission Motorsport October Newsletter
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Highlights include:
• Mission Motorsport’s first Hypercar Invitational at Anglesey, combining community, recovery, and motorsport.
• Operations Manager Mark “Chalky” White winning the 2025 Armed Forces Race Challenge.
• The launch of fundraising and outreach initiatives including #YourRoR, the Biathlon of
Foolishness, and ink-cartridge recycling.
• Upcoming events: Banter, Brews & Cars (15 Oct), Veterans @ Heritage (24 Oct), and the
• Upcoming events: Banter, Brews & Cars (15 Oct), Veterans @ Heritage (24 Oct), and the
opening of Race of Remembrance 2025 entries.
• Other news and updates.
To read the full newsletter, view it on the Mission Motorsport website here.
• Other news and updates.
To read the full newsletter, view it on the Mission Motorsport website here.
As always, if you have any questions, please get in touch with the team at team@missionmotorsport.org.
Morson Group/British Army 'Invest in You' Virtual Presentation 23 Oct 25
The key message of this presentation is that securing employment outside of the Services can be challenging and discusses beliefs that military qualifications will automatically set Service leavers apart from their civilian competitors.
The presenters are ex-military, and provide a strong message about planning ahead, and engaging with all the training and educational opportunities available in Service to build a competitive profile.
This event is open to all Service personnel, as awareness is key, regardless of where they may each be on their employment/resettlement journey.
To register, please go to: Link to Register: Morson Group/British Army 'Invest in You' Virtual Presentation Tickets, Thu 23 Oct 2025 at 16:00 | Eventbrite
New Award Made under The Armed Forces Covenant Fund: Empowering Bereaved Military Families programme
The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) awarded nearly £2 million to Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) to deliver targeted support – including counselling, emotional and practical care - to military families who’ve lost loved ones during or connected to service.
Long-term vison for transformational change
This project will deliver long-term, transformational change by addressing the unique challenges bereaved military families face over time. Through specialist support services delivered in partnership – including wellbeing and counselling – DMWS will help families move forward with strengthened mental health and resilience.
Tuesday, 14 October 2025
Rail industry offers free rail travel to help veterans and Armed Forces attend Remembrance Services
- Free rail travel offered for serving military personnel and veterans attending Services of Remembrance on 9 November.
- Free rail travel offered for Royal British Legion London Poppy Day volunteers and collectors on 30 October, with an additional one day either side of the event.
- Travel includes London Terminals and Services of Remembrance nationwide, with proof of ID required.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month – Types of Domestic Abuse
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Our information sheet on domestic abuse support can be downloaded at: https://armyhiveinfo.blogspot.com/search/label/Information%20Sheets
MODnet users can also find additional resources on the HIVE Sharepoint site at: Domestic Abuse
Victory Services Club, London – catch up on the latest newsletters
Please post the VSC image, with links to both newsletters:
Monday, 13 October 2025
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