WSBA (West Sovereign Base Areas) Akrotiri and Episkopi HomeStart programme

 

What is coming up over the next few weeks at Home-Start WSBA?

From next week, we will be back to our full range of group sessions!

Mini-Explorers is as popular as ever with limited places left.

Please book your child's place only using the link below

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mini-explorers-tickets-2001492630336?aff=oddtdtcreator

Directions will be out on Monday for those who are new to this group.

Our monthly PALS session returns on 5th October. Book all attending using the link below

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pals-tickets-1999356144048?aff=oddtdtcreator

We will also be having a stall at the Unit Health Fayre in Episkopi on Thursday 8th October. Save your change and come and have a go on our Tombola Stall or get stocked up on FREE winter uniform.

Looking forward to seeing you soon

Last Minute Parkdean Resort Holiday Breaks Available (16-23 Oct 26) – Apply by 1200hrs on 1 Oct

FAO Regular Army personnel.  

 

HQ Regional Command has secured additional 3 x fully funded 7-night Parkdean Resort family breaks that require urgent allocation.

 

To register your interest, complete this form by clicking the below link or scanning the below QR code. This expression of interest will close at 12:00 on Thu 1 Oct 26:

 

Funded Breaks for Regular Army Personnel (Parkdean Resorts) 16 - 23 Oct 26 – Fill in form

 

• Open to all Regular Army personnel

• 7 nights accommodation from Fri 16 to Fri 23 Oct 26

• 3-bedroom accommodation (up to 6 people)

• Completely free of charge

• 30% discount voucher for on-site food and beverages

• Applicants considered on a case-by-case basis

 

Important: Personnel may only register their interest if they:

 

• Are available to attend for the full duration of the break

• Offer justification as to why they should be considered

• Have obtained authorisation from their Chain of Command

 

Queries: RC-Pers-WelSpt-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026 Crowns The S.E.A. Dragons as Season Two Champions in the Royal Air Force Museum London

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) has today announced the winners of the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026, following the season-ending esports competition at the Royal Air Force Museum London on 27 September.

 

Eight teams from across the armed forces esports community came together for a day of competitive gaming, with the championship title ultimately decided in front of a live audience, showcasing the camaraderie and skills that defined this year’s tournament.

Easy Resettlement Magazine: Autumn edition out now

 

Have you read the Autumn issue of Easy Resettlement magazine yet?

 

In this issue there is information about employment events for service leavers, enabling you to meet future employers and network with companies and fellow service leavers.

ER mag also features the 162 winners of the MODs Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards and as always, you can find information from CTP and about ELCAS entitlements.

 

Please visit the Easy Resettlement website to read this issue online and download it for free: www.easyresettlement.com/magazine 

BFBS TV

 

THE BFBS PRO LEAGUE GRAND FINAL IS HERE!

Get ready for an epic showdown LIVE from the RAF Museum in London!

 Watch it live on BFBS TV
 Stream on Twitch
 Watch on YouTube

Plus, get to know some of the key players taking to the stage in our exclusive Get To Know shows.

Don’t miss a moment of the action who will be crowned BFBS Pro League champion?

https://bfbsesports.com/

Find out what's on at https://www.bfbs.com/sport

Defence Children Services: Service Pupil Premium – register your child before 1 Oct 2026

 

 If you're a Service parent and your child attends a school in England, make sure their school knows about your Service status before 1 October 2026.

 

Eligible schools can receive £360 per eligible Service pupil through the Service Pupil Premium (SPP), helping them provide additional support for Service children.

 

Find out more about eligibility and how you can help your school access this valuable funding:

 

https://dcs.school/2026/09/11/service-pupil-premium-2026-extra-funding-for-service-children-in-england/

Is Saving £25 a Month Worth It?

Struggling to save every month? 

Even £25 is enough to make a big difference overtime.

First Defence Finance has done the maths to show how small, regular savings can add up, and how an extra £5–£10 can have a huge impact over time.

Read the full blog: www.firstdefencefinance.co.uk/is-saving-25-a-month-or-less-worth-it

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment: 151 Executive Officer roles across Scotland and NE England – closing date 07 Oct

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have a total of 151 Executive Officer (EO) roles across Scotland and North East England. The roles are EO Work Coach in Universal Credit and Job Centre service.

DWP welcome applications from veterans, reservists, their family members and currently serving personnel looking to transition into civilian life.

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

Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Northeast England (Ref: 780) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Northeast Scotland (Ref: 779) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - East and Central Scotland (Ref: 778) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - South West Scotland (Ref: 777) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

The closing date is 07 Oct.

BFC Fire Safety

 

How Does the Bank of England Work?

The Bank of England affects your everyday spending more than you might realise. 

But what does the Bank of England actually do, and how can its decisions affect your money?

This simple guide breaks it down. 

Read the full blog: www.firstdefencefinance.co.uk/how-does-the-bank-of-england-work

Defence Update: Local Overseas Allowance rate changes 2026

 

From 1 October 2026, some Local Overseas Allowance (LOA) rates will go up, and some will go down, depending on the cost of living in your location.

Check the new rates for where you're based before the change takes effect.

LOA explained

LOA is money paid to Service personnel who are working overseas.

It helps cover the extra cost of everyday living overseas, when prices abroad are higher than in the UK.

What's changing and why

Every year, experts check the cost of living in each country. They use information from the Employment Conditions Abroad (ECA) survey and the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This tells us if prices have gone up or down compared to the UK.

Two things to know about this year's changes:

• Child rate is staying the same: The way LOA works out payments for children is being looked at again. Until this review finishes, child LOA rates will not change.

• Second car payments are going down: New ONS data shows that running a car in the UK now costs less than before. As LOA compares costs to the UK, this means the second car payment is going down everywhere.

What you need to do

Look up the full details on the new rates for your location. These can be found in the Directed Letter 'Revised Local Overseas Allowance Rates effective from 1 October 2026' (on defnet and Defence Connect).

Your Offer, recognising your service

There are other allowances available to help with essential needs and family wellbeing while you're overseas.

Find out more in JSP 752 or visit Discover My Benefits to explore the range of savings, allowances and opportunities available.

Point of Contact

The Allowances Team: People-AFRem-AllcesGroup@mod.gov.uk

Episkopi Dinky Rides

 

Recruit for Spouses: Upcoming events, programmes and upskilling opportunities for military families

The latest Recruit for Spouses update includes:

• The RFS Coaching and Mentoring Programme - participant feedback
• RFS on BFBS radio!
• Op SPOUSE: have your say
• Upcoming events and webinars

To view the update in full, please go to this link: Upcoming events, programmes and upskilling opportunities for military families

The Warrior Programme: 3 day ONLINE foundation course - 9-11 November

Are you interested in maximising your potential and overcoming the feelings of low self-confidence, imposter syndrome, fear of failure, stress and anxiety, that keep tripping you up?
The Warrior Programme are running a 3 day ONLINE foundation course on Monday 9th - Wednesday 11th November - the same Warrior Programme that enables you to better manage emotions, feel more balanced and in control of life and work, just delivered online in the same format as our residential courses to maximise your time.

For more information about this and our other foundation courses please get in touch at:
enquiries@warriorprogramme.org.uk
stating whether you are serving personnel or a family member and which service you are with.

We are really looking forward to working with you and others in the same position, who are motivated to address challenges and maximise personal performance.

Motorfinity Community Update (September 2026)

 

Motorfinity Community Update (September 2026)

Your role could unlock more than you think with Motorfinity

The new 76 plate is here

The new 76 plate has arrived — and if you work in the NHS, emergency services, armed forces, education, social care or another eligible sector, your role could unlock exclusive savings on a brand-new car.

With selected vehicles available for quick delivery, you could be behind the wheel of a new 76 plate sooner than you think.

More than just a saving

Depending on your eligibility and the manufacturer, Motorfinity customers can access:

• Exclusive discounts on brand-new cars
• A wide choice of leading manufacturers
• Family discounts with participating brands
• Flexible finance options
• Part exchange
• UK-wide delivery
• Expert support from first browse to delivery

One customer. One new EV. One impressive saving.

Retired headteacher Robin recently unlocked a saving of around £11,000 on a new electric vehicle through Motorfinity.

“Even though it was remote, it was amazing service. Everyone was so helpful and nothing was a problem. Whenever we had questions, we received answers straight away. Communication was fantastic. Quite often, when a company has your money, they don’t care about giving you good customer service. At Motorfinity, we’ve received a high level of support throughout the process.”

Read Robin’s story → https://motorfinity.uk/blog/robin-customer-story/?source=outreach&utm_source=outreach&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=september

Ready to see what your role could unlock?

Whether you’re looking for a family car, a reliable commuter or simply your next new vehicle, it’s worth checking what’s available.

Call 01636 558 885 or explore the latest 76 plate offers online. https://www.motorfinity.uk/?source=outreach&utm_source=outreach&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=september

Motorfinity — exclusive savings for eligible communities.

Serve & Protect Credit Union: Free financial education webinars this October

 

Green Living: Simple Eco-Friendly Tips to Lower Your Bills

When: Thursday 8th - 12:00-12:45

What to Expect: Discover how you can live a greener life to protect the planet and your wallet.

Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money

When: Tuesday 13th - 12:00-12:45

What to Expect: Learn how to create a budget that meets your financial goals, with tips to cut spending.

Wills, Trusts and LPA Explained: Presented in Collaboration with Estates Planning Seminars

When: Wednesday 14th - 12:00-13:30

What to Expect: Discover the options available for protecting your assets and your family.

Financial Guidance for Global Majority Workers in the UK

When: Thursday 15th - 12:00-12:45

What to Expect: Explore the common challenges faced by Global Majority Workers and the support available.

Saving Made Simple: Practical Habits to Boost Your Savings

When: Wednesday 21st - 12:00-12:45

What to Expect: Discover 10 practical savings methods to build a healthy savings cushion.

Financial Resilience: Ready When it Matters

When: Thursday 22nd - 12:00-13:00

What to Expect: Discover why financial resilience is so important, with simple tips to improve your resilience.

Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score

When: Friday 23rd - 12:00-12:45

What to Expect: Understand the importance of credit scores, with simple tips to improve your score.

Borrow Smarter: Tips to Strengthen Your Loan Application

When: Thursday 29th - 12:00-12:45

What to Expect: Explore the journey of a loan application, the factors lenders evaluate, and what to do before applying.

Register for free here: sandpcu.co.uk/hs-webinars

Summer Reading Challenge 2026

 

If your child took park in Read to the Beat, please remember to take your books back and collect your prizes from your local library.

MOD Discover My Benefits Families Hub: Health & Wellbeing information for World Mental Health Day on 10 Oct

 

DMB Fams Hub link: Discover My Benefits - Families

Career Transition Partnership: Upcoming Employment Fairs – Bournemouth on 24 Sept and Belfast on 14 Oct

 

CTP Employment Fairs are open to Service leavers, Veterans, Reservists, partners and spouses.

Service leavers, recent veterans and Reservists: To find out more and to reserve a place, please visit: https://www.modctp.co.uk/home/list-events

Veterans who discharged more than 2 years ago and family members: Register via email to CTP.events@reed.com

Alternatively register via the Forces Employment Charity (FEC): Link and click 'REGISTER' from the menu.

Remaining 2026 CTP Employment Fair dates are:

Cardiff - 5 Nov
Telford - 19 Nov

Combat Stress ‘Stronger Together’ Webinar series – starting 1 Oct

 

Are you supporting a veteran with PTSD or trauma? @CombatStress, the UK's leading charity for Armed Forces mental health, has a free Stronger Together webinar series that can help:

• Five sessions delivered by in-house clinical lead, Dr Vicky Aldridge
• Gain insight into PTSD and trauma, communication strategies and how best to support your loved one and yourself
• Starts Thursday 1 October 2026, every Thursday throughout October

Register to book your place today: https://combatstress.org.uk/referrers/combat-stress-learning/family-and-friends-of-veterans/

Recruit for Spouses: October Events and Employment opportunities for military families

 

Link to RFS: www.recruitforspouses.co.uk