Little Troopers: SQUAD Podcast is returning for Series 2 and your military children Year7+ could take part as contributors

SQUAD Podcast - Series

SQUAD is returning for Series 2 and your military children Year7+ could take part as contributors.

The Little Troopers podcast – SQUAD – is created especially for young people aged 11–18 who are part of a military family. As we get ready to launch Series 2, we’re on the lookout for young contributors to feature in the new episodes! Recording will take place throughout November and the podcast will launch in January 2026. You’ll be able to listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all other major platforms – as well as on the Little Troopers website. 🎧 This is a fantastic opportunity for military young people to share their experiences and join conversations alongside an inspiring line-up of guests – including celebrities, sports stars, and musicians who also grew up in military families. We’d love to hear your story and your questions for our guests about how being part of a military family has shaped their lives and careers. Find more information and the application form here: https://www.littletroopers.net/looking-for-military-teens-with-a-love-of-digital-media/ SQUAD series 1 episodes can be found here:  https://audioboom.com/channels/5060133-squad-by-little-troopers?

Department for Work & Pensions Bulk Recruitment: 175 vacancies for Universal Credit Review Executive Officers nationwide

The Department for Work and Pensions has 175 vacancies for Universal Credit Review Executive Officers, open for applications between the 28/10/2025 and the 11/11/2025. The vacancies are available to veterans, reservists, currently serving personnel who are looking to transition into civilian roles and their family members.

The link for further information on the role, locations and how to apply is at: Universal Credit Review - Executive Officer - National (Ref: 749) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

Movember Charity Event - Ay Nik

Get involved by growing a moustache or walk/run 60km through the duration of November.

Sign up at www.movember.com and enter the team code - 2493233

31st October - Clean shaven meet-up

28th November - Best moustache meet-up

For more information contact Ay Nik HIVE

DIO SFA Communications Update: 23 Oct – Defence Homes Colour Palette

 

Patch Hacks: New painting guidelines for UK SFA

As part of their commitment to modernise outdated policies and give Service families more freedoms, DIO has introduced a new Defence Homes Colour Palette.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

ESBA Parkrun hits 100!

Did you know that Ay Nik is home to the ESBA Parkrun?

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.

Sunday Social at Ay Nik Dog Park

 

Inflatable Fun

 

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

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.

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

Akrotiri Market

Saturday 8 November, AKI Market/Car Boot.

Sign up on the Face Book page; Akrotiri Community Group.

Update from GOV.UK: Digital version of Veteran Card launched for quicker and easier access to support

Nearly 2 million veterans can now get and benefit from a digital version of the Veteran Card, which will make it easier and quicker to access key services and discounts via their smartphones.

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

BFBS to Launch First-Ever AI Skills Programme Exclusively for Military Partners

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) has been awarded a significant grant of £66,884 from The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust to deliver a groundbreaking AI skills programme exclusively for military partners helping them develop digital skills, grow career opportunities and strengthen employability in an increasingly tech-driven world.

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

When someone joins the armed forces, it’s a career and a lifestyle that extends to their entire family.

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.

Relate at Family Action: Four new job vacancies, UK Home-based with travel

Relate at Family Action have the following 4 new roles at Relate (UK homebased with travel, full time & permanent):

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.

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

Bereaved families within the armed forces community will soon benefit from specialist mental health and wellbeing support, thanks to a significant investment from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund’s ‘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.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month – Types of Domestic Abuse

For information on sources of support and advice on domestic abuse, please see this topic area on the HIVE Blog at https://armyhiveinfo.blogspot.com/search/label/Domestic%20Abuse

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:

August: Club Life Newsletter - August 2025

Sept: Club Life Newsletter - September 2025

Dhekeli Bonfire night

 

Akrotiri - Library Volunteer

 

Welfare Matters Newsletter Family Edition – out now

Conference: How military partners fit within the workforce of the future – 3 Nov

Monday 3 November, 9:00 – 17:00, Town House, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2EQ

Kingston University are holding an important conference on the employability and skills of Service partners. Hear about the latest research which highlights the skills of Service partners in the workplace, and consider the practical steps needed to ensure these are incorporated – and valued – at work.

Serving personnel and partners, including those who are dual-serving and Reservists, are welcome to attend. Veterans, policy makers, employers and related organisations are also invited.

This event is free to attend and will offer refreshments and networking opportunities.

Find out more about the event and register your place in advance.

Recruit for Spouses: Foreign & Commonwealth Programme

The RFS Foreign & Commonwealth Programme is offered free of charge to military spouses and partners of serving personnel and veterans and includes the following support:

Qualification Conversion: Assistance in converting home nation qualifications to UK equivalents, enabling better access to the UK job market.

Coaching and Mentoring: Access to a pool of over 90 volunteer mentors from various industry sectors, offering support with confidence building, identifying transferable skills, and navigating the recruitment process.

Wellbeing Programme: A six-week course designed to help you connect with other spouses and develop tools to support you in adapting to military life.

To register for the programme, please sign up via the RFS portal: https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in, or for any questions please email: J.kanyua@recruitforspouses.co.uk

Homestart: Free Online Sessions for Army families with their Family Coach

Homestart in Berkshire East are excited to share a fantastic free opportunity for Army parents and carers to join their online sessions led by an experienced Family Coach. Coming from an Army family herself, she truly understands the unique challenges that families face and brings both empathy and practical support to every session.

These sessions are a safe, supportive space where people can connect, share, and find strategies that work for their families.

To register, simply scan the QR code on the flyer, or click HERE. If you’d like to find out more first, please get in touch via Home-Start Berkshire East | Because childhood can't wait

First session is 27th October and spaces are limited to 12 per session.

 

ESBA Parkrun / Parkwalk

When: Saturday mornings from 08.00 (07.50 for first timers brief)

Where: Ayios Nikolaos

Who: Open to all over 4 years of age (children must be accompanied by an adult) who hold a valid Station Pass

Parkrun is a free community event where you can run, jog or walk a 5km course at your own pace.

Parkrun is a positive, welcoming and inclusive event.

There is no time limit and no one finishes last, Parkrun is not a race.

The ESBA Parkrun has a Parkwalker and a Tailwalker so you are never alone.

There are regular "Chase the Pacer" events for those that wish to achieve a PB.

If you don't want to run or walk there are plenty of opportunities for volunteering at the event, the volunteers are the ones that make Parkrun happen.

For more details or to volunteer please contact the ESBA Parkrun team at esba@parkrun.com or check out the webpage - https://www.parkrun.org.uk/esba/ 

RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification

Junior Sailing Course - 27th to 30th October

 

Baby Massage Course at Dhekelia starting Tuesday 7th October

 

New Baby Massage Sessions with Amy!

We’re so excited to share that from next Tuesday, Amy will be running her relaxing Baby Massage Course – the perfect way to bond with your little one and meet other parents.

Starting from 7th October - 26th November 2025 (with a break in half-term)

Time: 9:00am –11:00am
Place: Home-Start Community Room, DHK
Cost: €60 for the full 6-week course (just €10 per session!)

How to book: Please contact Amy directly on 07908101109. NOT through the Hive booking system). Spaces are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

If you cannot make the DHK session Amy also has limited spaces in the AYN session.
Amy can’t wait to meet you and be part of your parenting journey!

FREE Baby Massage Classes at Ay Nik

 

Stoptober 2025: Let’s quit smoking together this Stoptober!

Stoptober is back! Join thousands of other smokers committing to quit this October.

Even if it’s your first time or you’ve tried before, now is the perfect time to quit smoking. Make it to 28 days smoke-free and you’re 5 times more likely to quit for good.

There’s no need to go it alone. With free tools, advice and support, quitting is easier than you think. We've got your back as you take on the challenge.

For more information on Stoptober and NHS advice on stopping smoking and support for those wanting to quit for good, please go to: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

Stop Loan Sharks: Briefings in Oct and Nov open to the Service Community

 

There are 1.08 million people in debt to a Loan Shark in England. You are not alone. Call Stop Loan Sharks on 0300 555 2222 to access support.

Stop Loan Sharks briefs - no registration needed, join via laptop or mobile:

7 Oct 25 0900 - 1000 TEAMS link to join Meeting ID: 357 830 299 772 8 / Passcode: De3KX9x3
Alternatively dial in by phone +44 20 3443 8728,,651144970# Phone conference ID: 651 144 970#

7 Oct 25 1330 - 1430 TEAMS link to join Meeting ID: 329 059 383 381 4 / Passcode: e746np9K
Alternatively dial in by phone +44 20 3443 8728,,228840345# Phone conference ID: 228 840 345#

29 Oct 25 1200- 1300 TEAMS link to join 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 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#