Valuing Forces Families Overseas

Valuing Forces Families Overseas: Focus Group Invitation

BFBS - Whats on

Movies This Week

Mission Motorsport – May Newsletter

The May newsletter from Mission Motorsport is now available, and it’s a packed edition.

Inside, you’ll find updates on upcoming events, motorsport activity, community news, support opportunities, and ways to get involved. It’s a great snapshot of what’s been happening across the Mission Motorsport community, as well as what’s coming up next.

Whether you’re looking to take part, stay connected, or simply keep up to date with what we’ve been working on, there’s something in this month’s edition for the Armed Forces community, partners, and supporters alike.

You can read it online here: https://www.missionmotorsport.org/news/maynewsletter

Forces Cars Direct: May 2026 Offers

 

Please upload the poster attached with:

 

Ready for a change? This May, Forces Cars Direct offers have gone even bigger, with an incredible selection of brands and discounts available. Take the Chery Tiggo 8 with a saving of £5,376, or the Cupra Terramar with an impressive £10,710 off.

 

The friendly team at Motor Source Group are on hand to help you find the perfect car at a great price.

 

To explore their latest deals, simply follow this link to view this month’s special offers: https://www.forcescarsdirect.com/special-offers/monthly-offers

 

Motorfinity - May Update

 

   

                     

Motorfinity May Update

Motorfinity supports frontline workers with exclusive discounts on brand-new cars, expert support, and a hassle-free buying experience. From reliable daily commutes to family-friendly upgrades and long road trips, Motorfinity helps those who support our communities save on their next car. Share with someone who could benefit.

Exclusive Savings for Frontline Workers

Motorfinity offers:

✔ Exclusive new car discounts 

✔ Part exchange options

 ✔ Family discounts with participating manufacturers

 ✔ Friendly expert guidance

ICE vs EV: Should You Make the Switch?

Thinking about switching to electric?

Our latest guide compares petrol, diesel, and EVs to help you decide which option best suits your lifestyle and budget. 

Read the guide here - Motorfinity | ICE vs EV: why you should consider making the switch

New Changan Partnership

We’re excited to introduce Changan to the Motorfinity lineup, bringing even more innovative vehicle options to UK drivers.

Learn more - Motorfinity | Motorfinity introduce the Chinese market with landmark Changan cars partnership

Check out the new Changan Video - youtube.com/watch?si=bvyA5iCcdJiM2oEd&v=LoPebH2IIuE&feature=youtu.be

New Podcast Episode 

Motorfinity recently partnered with the Working Well Community for a podcast featuring Tiger de Souza from Samaritans, discussing leadership, wellbeing, hybrid working, and the future of work. 

Watch the episode - Why We Still Work Like It’s 1926 | Tiger de Souza on the Future of Work - YouTube

Get a quote from our friendly team today - 

Motorfinity | New Car Discounts for Blue Light & Military

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment: 168 DWP Work Coach EO roles in the Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber – closing date 21 May

 

 

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have 168 Executive Officer (EO) Work Coach vacancies throughout the Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber. These may be of interest to Service leavers, veterans and Service community members looking at Civil Service roles.

Civil Service Jobs link with further information on the roles available, and application details: 

Universal Credit Job Centre - EO Work Coach - Midlands, Yorkshire and Humber (Ref: 763) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

 

The vacancies close on 21/05/2026.

 

BFBS Selects Synamedia Following Global Competition to Deliver Landmark Digital Platform for UK Armed Force

 

Strategic three-year partnership marks delivery phase of BFBS’ next-generation media vision

 

Media organisation and military charity BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) today announces it has selected Synamedia as its strategic technology partner to deliver its next-generation global digital platform, following a highly competitive international tender process launched in February 2025, attracting leading technology and media organisations from across the industry.

 

The announcement comes shortly after the Ministry of Defence renewed BFBS’ contract for a further ten years, reaffirming BFBS’ vital role as a trusted and secure global military broadcaster supporting the UK Armed Forces wherever they serve. As a longstanding and essential provider of media services to Defence audiences worldwide, BFBS continues to play a central role in keeping personnel informed, entertained and connected across some of the most complex and challenging operating environments. Together these milestones mark the beginning of the most significant technological transformation in more than eight decades of BFBS’ history.

 

Following detailed technical evaluation and industry consultation, with support from digital transformation experts Spicy Mango, Synamedia’s appointment concludes a rigorous process to help shape the future of secure media delivery for the UK Armed Forces and their families worldwide.

 

Synamedia’s deep knowledge across streaming platforms, broadcast technology, and secure content distribution will enable BFBS to modernise its technology foundations. Their remit will be to build and evolve the organisation’s new media ecosystem, under the working title of “The Hub”.

 

The programme will:

• Launch in phases, with a modern digital service comparable with leading OTT platforms
• Consolidate BFBS services into a single and secure streamlined experience
• Introduce new content formats beyond traditional broadcasting
• Deliver personalised and secure access across multiple devices

 

Ben Chapman, CEO of BFBS, said: “This is a defining moment in the evolution of BFBS. Following a highly competitive global process, we are delighted to be partnering with Synamedia to bring our vision of our digital media platform to life. Our goal has always been to ensure the UK Armed Forces and their families can access trusted media experiences wherever they are, be that on ships, bases, or in remote locations worldwide. This partnership gives us scale and the technological function to deliver on that promise, representing an innovative change in how we offer content in a personalised and secure way.”

 

Paul Segre, CEO of Synamedia, added: “With the digital transformation of its content platform, BFBS has a bold vision and an innovative roadmap to make it a reality. Our cloud-native end-to-end technologies, streaming and content delivery capabilities, security expertise and professional services team are ideally suited to complex transformation projects just like this. We will enable BFBS to focus its investment where it has the greatest impact, including delivering a distinctive, high-quality user experience wherever they might be.”

 

By combining broadcast heritage with next-generation digital capability, The Hub will offer an experience available nowhere else, uniquely tailored to the needs of the UK Armed Forces and their families.

 

For general updates, visit BFBS or follow on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Salt Lake Site Coffee Meeting. Akrotiri / Ay Nic

 

Change of date and time to the Salt Lake Site Coffee Morn. 

Service Children's Progression Alliance Impact Centre Listening Tour: UK-Wide and online dates May-Oct 2026

 

Over the next few months, the Service Children’s Progression (SCIP) Alliance are hosting over 30 events across the UK to conduct discussion groups on the topic of evidence mobilisation.

 

These will be an opportunity for anyone working with Armed Forces families...

Quest Magazine – May Edition Out Now

 

To read this issue online, or any back issues, please go to:  https://www.questonline.co.uk/magazine-archive

Akrotiri: Dress Auction

Fasouri Waterpark Membership

IMPORTANT UPDATE TO ALLOWANCES LISTED: REAMPLIFICATION REQUEST: 20260507 - Long-term relationships: Closing the gap on allowances

Long-term relationships: Closing the gap on allowances
If you’re in a long-term relationship, a range of allowances and support are now available to you – the same as your married or civil-partnered colleagues.

What’s changed?
Many allowances were only available to Service Personnel who were married or in a civil partnership. That wasn’t fair – not everyone wants to get married, even when they’re in a committed relationship.

From 1 May 2026, if you are in a Long-Term Relationship (Established) – known as an LTR(E) – you can claim allowances and provisions that were previously unavailable to you, just like your married colleagues.

Sarah Houghton, Director Armed Forces People Policy said:
“This is a real step forward for our people and their families. Around 20,000 Service Personnel are set to benefit – with those in long term relationships being treated the same way as married colleagues for nine allowances.”

Which allowances and provisions are affected?

Fasouri Waterpark Opening Date Summer Season 2026

FREE Courses - RACPD & Functional Skills UK Courses

At RACPD, they have been funding Level 2 online courses for spouses and partners of currently serving personnel in Cyprus for several years. They have recently partnered with Functional Skills UK to expand their offering, enabling them to provide a wider range of fully funded courses to both serving personnel and their spouses/partners.

Please find attached a selection of posters highlighting some of the courses currently available.

National Autistic Society Licenced Course

Hawley Lake Sail Training Centre, Surrey: Military Families' Open Day - Saturday 6th June

Military Families' Open Day - Saturday 6th June from 10:00am to 4:00pm

Come down and chat to the Hawley Lake team about membership options, take part in one of their watersports taster sessions (book in advance to avoid missing out!) or just come and grab a bite to eat and a drink by the lake at the licensed clubhouse bar.

For more information or to book onto a taster session, visit MILITARY FAMILIES OPEN DAY FUNDRAISER SATURDAY 6TH JUNE - Hawley Lake

All proceeds from the Open Day and Charity Fundraiser will be used to support the Hawley Lake Sail Training Centre Charity (number 1149489).

Carers UK – Looking After Someone 26/27 England Guide

The 26/27 edition of the Carers UK Looking After Someone 2026–27 England Guide is now available.

Akrotiri Womens Tennis

 

Come along and play, all welcome! Akrotiri Officers Mess courts 545pm this week.

Morrelli Events

BFC Discounts applies. For more information kindly check their website. 

Episkopi: Galaxy Cinema Schedules

Episkopi: Garrison Community Padlet

A New Way to Stay Updated at Episkopi Garrison

Episkopi Garrison Community Padlet — a clean, organised digital notice board where all current news, events, and updates are gathered in one easy‑to‑browse space.

Explore the Padlet here: https://padlet.com/.../episkopi-garrison-community-hub...

Episkopi: Chiron Veterinary Clinic

For those with pets, they have just launched a new group for their Chiron Veterinary Clinic:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DdZZJiUCx/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Join for more information about the services they offer!

BFBS April Update

To view this latest update from BFBS in full, please go to: BFBS Update April 2026 | About BFBS

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment: 360 Case Manager job vacancies across the UK, closing date 14 May

Content:

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have 360 Executive Officer Case Manager roles, working in Disability Services on the Access to Work scheme. These may be of interest to Service leavers, veterans and Service community members looking at Civil Service roles.

Civil Service Jobs link with further information on the roles available, and application details: Disability Services - Access to Work - EO Case Manager - National (Ref: 761) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

Open for applications until 14/05/26.

Defence Update: Your move, better supported - Fairer moving costs for UK PASH users

Your move, better supported:

Fairer moving costs for UK PASH users

Moving home is never easy, but the Armed Forces are making it a little simpler and fairer.

If you live in Single Living Accommodation (SLA) – in a Mess, Barrack Block or equivalent – and you need to move your things when posted to another unit, there are two ways you can get help:

UK Private Arrangements Self Help Scheme (UK PASH) – you arrange your own move and claim back some of the costs
Self Pack Service (SPS) – your unit helps move your belongings through stores

Serve & Protect Credit Union: Free financial webinars this May

Content:

🎲 Harmful Effects of Gambling with GamCare
Date: Tuesday 5th May
Time: 12:00-13:00
What to Expect: Discover the financial impacts of harmful gambling with representatives from GamCare.

🌍 Green Living: Simple Eco-Friendly Tips to Lower Your Bills
Date: Friday 8th May
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Tips for living a greener life to save money and protect the planet!

📆 Planning Ahead: Wills, Trusts and LPA Explained
Date: Tuesday 12th May
Time: 12:00-13:30
What to Expect: Find out about Wills, Lasting Power of Attorney, Trusts, and Probate with representatives from Estates Planning Seminars.

Mercury Cinema Listings - May 2026

 Check the BFBS cinema page for more details - https://cinemas.bfbs.com/ayios-nikolaos 

BFC HIVE Job Vacancy

Join the British Forces Cyprus HIVE Team

The HIVE journey is coming to an end for a few of our wonderful team members, which means we have a few HISO roles available across Cyprus.

This could be your opportunity to join the HIVE and support our incredible service community.

If you’ve ever wondered what HIVE does, or you’re considering applying, we’re hosting a series of informal drop-in sessions where you can meet the team, ask questions, and get a feel for the role:

1) Ay Nik HISO (Job Share)Dhekelia HIVE: Monday 4th May | 11:00–12:00
Ay Nik HIVE: Tuesday 5th May | 11:00–12:00

2) Aki & Epi HISO (Job Share)Aki HIVE: Wednesday 6th May | 08:30–09:30
Epi HIVE: Wednesday 6th May | 11:30–12:30

Virtual Session (for those unable to attend in person)Friday 8th May | 12:00–13:00 (Cyprus) | 10:00–11:00 (UK)

Keen to explore a new and meaningful job experience or simply curious along and have a chat?

We’d love to meet you. See flyer for more details

Apply here: www.sbaadministration.org/index.php/m-vacancies

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 29 April 2026

Damage Charges process 

DIO is introducing changes to the damage charges process to make this process simpler for you and your family upon Move-Out.

·        From 1st May 2026, on the day you move out, your Housing Officer will provide a formal notification via email. This will include your move-out form, details of any charges incurred and information of how raise a dispute if needed. 

·        We have also extended the review timeframe for charges. You will now have 30 days to assess the charges and, if necessary, initiate a Stage 1 dispute. Recovery actions will not begin until this 30-day period has passed.

·        If a dispute is raised, any recovery action will be paused until the issue has been fully resolved. Pinnacle will continue to handle Stage 1 disputes and DIO will continue to manage Stage 2 disputes. 

These changes aim to ensure you are provided with clear details on the day of Move-Out and sufficient time to review everything before any further action is taken, if required. 

For families who move out before 1st May 2026, formal notifications will continue to be issued under the current process. We appreciate your patience while we work through these remaining cases during the transition to the new system. 

DIO Families Families First Newsletter - Issue 37 Published

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available to view and download on the Defence Homes website.

Stop Loan Sharks Week 2026: 11 -17 May

 

Loan sharks don’t always look like villains. Sometimes, they change
character, switch tactics and reinvent themselves - just like players in an
online game. But this isn’t a game. And the consequences are real.

BFBS - Movies this Week

 

Movies This Week

From survival thrillers to sprawling sci-fi epics, the line-up this week is packed with action, danger, and unforgettable characters.

In this week's Premier Sweetheart, a young woman stranded on a remote island, soon discovers she may not be alone.

Dune and Dune: Part Two transport you to a harsh desert world where destiny, power and rebellion collide in an epic battle for the future.

Meanwhile, Django Unchained delivers a bold revenge story set in the American South, as a freed slave and a bounty hunter set out on a dangerous mission.

A former sniper is drawn into a deadly conspiracy that forces him to fight for survival in Shooter.

Whilst Waterworld imagines a future Earth covered by water, where survival depends on finding the last traces of dry land.

In short: survival, revenge, conspiracy and larger-than-life action.

Supporting the Unsung Hero: Business Start Up Programme – New Course Dates

For further information about Supporting the Unsung Hero programmes and to register for a course, please go to https://x-forces.com/supporting-the-unsung-hero/

Celebrating Forces Families Awards 2026 Recognise Outstanding Contribution of Armed Forces Families

The fifth annual Celebrating Forces Families Awards took place on Friday evening at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, recognising the extraordinary contribution of Armed Forces families across the UK and overseas. Bringing together families, organisations and advocates from across the military community, the awards shine a light on the resilience, dedication and often unseen impact of those who support Service life every day.

This year’s winners included:
 Young People’s Award: Jack and Luke Woodhouse
 Social Enterprise Award: NeuroDiverse Community CIC
 Business Award: QinetiQ
 Small Business Owner Award: Dionne Ross
 Family Volunteer Award: Lesley Collier
 Social Media Influencer Award: Padwives Unfiltered
 Public Service Award: Lisa Brown
 Armed Forces Advocate Award: Angela Lewis
 Inspirational Adult Family Member: Shelley Ellis
 Overcoming Adversity Award: Jo Gordon
 Away From Home Award: Katherine Sones

The evening was attended and formally closed by Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, Chief of Defence Staff, who reinforced the critical role families play in Defence.
In his closing address, he said: “The support you provide enables us to be operationally effective. It gives our people the confidence, the stability and the focus they need to serve our country.” His message was clear. Behind every serving member of the Armed Forces is a family whose contribution is fundamental to national security. Sarah Walker, Chair of the Awards, said: “Reaching our fifth year is something we are incredibly proud of. These awards reflect the strength, resilience, and spirit of our Armed Forces families community, and it is a privilege to recognise their contribution.”

The evening was hosted by BFBS presenter Sian Grzeszczyk Melbourne and former soldier and Britain’s Got Talent winner Richard Jones, whose live magic performance brought a moment of shared joy ahead of the awards presentation. Guests were also treated to a live performance from Marham School of Performing Arts, highlighting the creativity and talent within Forces communities, alongside a unique live art experience from contemporary artist Dean Douglas, who created an original piece throughout the evening capturing the atmosphere in real time. Nick Pett, Head of the MOD’s Families Team, said: “Service families provide stability during change, reassurance during deployment, and a sense of home wherever duty takes them. Without their support, Service life would not be possible.”

The awards continue to grow in reach and impact, with the event live streamed globally and supported by a wide network of sponsors and partners committed to championing Armed Forces families. None of this would be possible without that support. Sponsors and partners play a vital role in ensuring these stories are recognised, amplified and celebrated.
Beyond the awards themselves, Celebrating Forces Families continues to share these stories
year-round through its podcast and digital platforms, ensuring the voices of the community
continue to be heard. While the evening recognised individual achievements, its wider message was clear. This is not just an event, but a platform and a growing movement, ensuring Armed Forces families are not only supported, but truly seen.

Military vs Cancer: Supporting those in the Armed Forces Community affected by cancer

 Military Vs Cancer’s support includes:

• Additional family / nursing care funding.

• Travel costs for treatment, including hotel stays for family members.

• Home adaptations.

• Respite breaks.

• Memory making trips.

• Special experiences, especially for those with a terminal diagnosis.

• Peer group / community support for serving forces members and their families.

 
There are also several large-scale events this year including :

• Rugby Day Armed Forces Rugby Team vs North Select XV Teams - Doncaster  - Free Tickets for Serving Personnel and Veterans 

• Annual Summer Ball - Lincoln 

• Heroes Golf Day 

• Great North Run 

To find out more about any of these events please visit: https://www.militaryvscancer.com/events/
 

Recruit for Spouses Webinar on 7 May: Breaking Down Imposter Syndrome

On Thursday 7th May at 12:30pm GMT, RFS is hosting:

Real Confidence for Real People: Imposter Syndrome

 

Delivered by the expert coaching team at Aletheia — Sam Ryder, Zoe Hughes, Saskia Hart, and Estelle Bailly — this free, practical session is designed specifically for military spouses and partners navigating self-doubt, career gaps, and the unique challenges of Service life.

 

Attendees will explore:

 

 Where imposter syndrome comes from and why it's so common in our community

 How to identify genuine strengths and challenge the narrative holding them back

 Practical strategies to build authentic, lasting confidence

 Tools to take confident action — whether exploring new roles, going for promotion, or starting something new

 

 Thursday 7th May 2026

 12:30pm

 Virtual

 Completely FREE

 

The session will be recorded but attendees need to register to access it, so we'd encourage anyone interested to sign up even if they can't join live.

 

 Register here: https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in or email e.hartshorn@recruitforspouses.co.uk