DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 11 August 25

SFA Consumer Charter – greater freedoms for families 

Service Personnel and families deserve homes that reflect your unique needs and lifestyles. Outdated, lengthy policies are unhelpful in fostering a sense of belonging where you can make a house feel like your home. This is particularly important given the transient nature of military life, which we know can be disruptive.  

 

DIO is committed to transforming this experience. By modernising our policies, we’re empowering families with greater freedom to personalise and enhance your homes. Defence Secretary Rt Hon John Healey MP announced the latest improvements, which include an update to policies making it easier for you to own pets and run businesses from home. In the future, you will also have more freedom to personalise and decorate your homes, the details of which will be confirmed in due course.  

7th Sept 2025: National emergency alert test and guidance for victims of domestic abuse

There will be a test of the national emergency alert system on 07 September. This will come through to all mobile phones across the country.  SafeLives have issued the following guidance for those who are victims of domestic abuse:

 

📢 A UK-wide emergency alert test will take place on Sunday 7th September 2025 at 3pm. Mobile phones will emit a loud siren and vibrate — even if they’re on silent.

 

Whilst these alerts aim to protect the public in emergencies, they could put victim-survivors of domestic abuse at risk — especially those who rely on hidden phones as part of their safety plan.

 

Please know, you CAN opt out of this test.

If you need to disable alerts for safety reasons, follow the steps here: Opting out of emergency alerts - GOV.UK

New surveys for Service children aged 8-18 – share your experience of growing up in a military family

The Survey is open until 5th September

Links for Survey:

• Age 8 - 11
• Age 12 - 15
• Age 16 - 18

 

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment – Universal Credit Income and Expenses Agent, Leeds

The Department of Work and Pensions has 110 new Universal Credit Income and Expenses Agent Executive Officer opportunities in Leeds. These are now open for applications until 26 Aug 2025.

 

Civil Service Jobs link:  Universal Credit Income and Expenses Agent Executive Officer - Leeds (Ref: 741)

 

More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on the DWP EO Microsite.

 

 

NAAFI Fund - NATO Shape's Community Spaces Are Officially Open

The NAAFI Fund recently awarded a £17,500 grant to NATO in Shape, Belgium to give their community spaces a much-needed makeover! This project was all about creating a centralised, welcoming space for the British Military Community.  To read NAAFI Fund’s blog post on this project, please visit: https://naafi.co.uk/project/from-dream-to-reality/

 

NAAFI Fund said:  “To gain some inspiration about how the NAAFI Fund could help in your unit or local community area, please take a look at our previously supported projects Completed Fund Projects - NAAFI

 

“For more information on the NAAFI Fund, the application process and what grants are available, please take a look at our website NAAFI Fund - NAAFI

 

“We anticipate the portal to re-open for applications in April 2026, however, we will announce the exact dates and links nearer the time via our social media and website, so please keep an eye on those @naafisocial.  If you would like to be added to the mailing list, to receive communication nearer the time so you can start to prepare your bid, please email funding@naafi.co.uk”

 

NAAFI: https://naafi.co.uk/

 

Gibraltar: Cardboard Boat Race, raising funds for Cancer Relief Gibraltar

The ever popular Carboard Boat Race is back on Saturday 16th August!

RAOB, in collaboration with Ocean Village, will be hosting Gibraltar’s favourite quirky event—where cardboard becomes seaworthy and teamwork turns legendary! The epic day will once again be fundraising in support of Cancer Relief & GBC Open Day and we will be there supporting this fantastic family event.

Join the fun on the day by coming down to watch the races and enjoy the activities and atmosphere on offer or get together with family or colleagues to enter your own boat and challenge Cancer Relief, who will be back defending our 3rd place title!

Mark your calendars!!

For more info on entry requirements , click here: RAOB – Website

Gibraltar: National Celebrations Programme

Gibraltar's Department of Culture has just released their programme of events for National Celebrations. Commencing with the opening of the Gibraltar Fair on 23rd August and culminating in National Day on 10th September. Note for your calendars; 10th September is a local Bank Holiday.

Detailed programme of events during Gibraltar Fair:

Evolve House event on 28th Sept for frontline women, in partnership with Motorfinity and She’s Electric

Evolve House in partnership with Motorfinity and She’s Electric

An opportunity for frontline women….

Motorfinity in partnership with She’s Electric are hosting an inspiring day at Stubton Hall in Nottinghamshire / Lincolnshire border on Sunday 28th September – created especially for you, the incredible women who keep everything moving.

Whether you’re part of the UK’s Armed Forces, a Veteran, or work in the Emergency Services, Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance services, Prison Services, Education, Social Care or the NHS – this event is a way to say thank you, and to give something back to the women who do so much for others.

Expect powerful conversations, expert wellbeing insight, a fun electric drive experience and a chance to recharge.

If this sounds like you, or someone in your circle, we’d encourage you to register – places are complimentary but limited.

Link to register:

https://www.sheselectric.co.uk/motorfinity-evolve-house?utm_source=toolkit&utm_medium=comms&utm_campaign=EvolveHouse

 

New BFBS Royal Air Force Documentary: Top Flight Fitness – Available to Watch Now

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) spent six months at RAF Cosford following trainee Physical Training Instructors (PTIs) on one of the Royal Air Force’s toughest and most demanding courses, in a brand-new programme, Top Flight Fitness.

 BFBS Forces News had special access to this intense and demanding training journey, capturing the brutal workouts, military theory lessons, real-world teaching sessions, and relentless physical and mental assessments that push even the fittest to their limits.

 

From raw recruits straight off civvy street to experienced service personnel, the series reveals what it really takes to become a PTI, and it’s not just about six-packs and speed.

 

BFBS Forces News reporter Kirstie Chambers joins the course every step of the way, sharing insight into the teamwork, psychology, resilience and sheer determination it takes to earn the coveted PTI badge, she said: “They didn’t just train bodies, they built minds. The women matched the men, the competition drove camaraderie, and the real test? Just keeping up the pace.”

 

Expect sweat, setbacks and serious inspiration in this must-see look inside the RAF’s most physically demanding training ground.

*** Top Flight Fitness: What it takes to keep the RAF fighting fit, is available to watch now on BFBS Forces News YouTube: https://brnw.ch/21wUzsH ***

High-res images: https://we.tl/t-yw8KF75lSC

 

Give Us Time: new donor in the NE of England

Give Us Time have a new donor in the North East of England – please see the poster for more details and for how to book.

Dept of Work and Pensions: WP Work Coach Vacancies

The following Executive Officer work coach vacancies are now open:

 Civil Service Jobs link:

Decision Making Directorate - Decision Maker - Bangor, Ty Taf (Ref: 740) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

open from 07/08/2025 to 21/08/2025

 

More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on our EO Microsite

 

August Quest Magazine is Out Now

 To read this issue online, or any previous issues, please go to: Quest Magazine | Quest Online

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest HRMC Vacancy in London - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners

The following vacancy is now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme:

GFIE-443 HMRC STRAP Security Officer- Stratford Regional Centre - London

Closing Date: 1st September 2025

Job Description Click to open

​GFiE roles are available specifically to people who served in the Armed Forces, or be in your resettlement period and due to leave the Armed Forces within a reasonable time frame or a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EOI Form (also see Guidance notes) and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

For more information on the GFiE scheme please go to: A complete guide to GFiE – Veterans, Military Partners/Spouses and Service Leavers – Life Chances – Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) (blog.gov.uk)

 

BFBS to Broadcast 2025 Women’s International Defence Rugby Competition as Official Media Partner

British Forces Broadcasting Service will broadcast the 2025 Women’s International Defence Rugby Competition as the Official Media Partner. See below for more details about the event, dates and locations of the matches and how to get tickets.

Reading Force’s memoir competition for adults, children and young people – closes end of Aug

 

Less than a month left to enter Reading Force’s 2025 writing competition for adults, children & young people.

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest DWP Vacancy in Middlesbrough - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners

The following vacancy is now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme:

GFIE-447 - Decision Maker - Middlesbrough

Closing Date: 2 September 2025

Job Description: Click to open

​GFiE roles are available specifically to people who served in the Armed Forces, or be in your resettlement period and due to leave the Armed Forces within a reasonable time frame or a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EOI Form (also see Guidance notes) and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

For more information on the GFiE scheme please go to: A complete guide to GFiE – Veterans, Military Partners/Spouses and Service Leavers – Life Chances – Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) (blog.gov.uk)

Family Action – UK remote, full time, permanent job opportunities

Family Action have 5x UK remote, full time, permanent job adverts: ‘Not only are they all fantastic opportunities to shape what we do at Family Action and Relate (part of Family Action) but we offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role and, we are also applying positive action to improve the representation of people of colour in management roles at Family Action. As such, the guaranteed interview scheme is extended to applicants of colour who meet the minimum criteria.  To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse travel costs if you are invited to attend an interview in person’.

 

Performance Business Manager – Full Time / Permanent – UK Remote - £36,842 - £41,106 FTE per annum

Closing date to apply – Tuesday 19^th August at 23:59

Job ID: 1535

 

Continuous Improvement Manager – Full Time / Permanent – UK Remote - £42,140 - £46,240 FTE per annum

Closing date to apply – Tuesday 19^th August at 23:59

Job ID: 1536

 

Continuous Improvement Manager – Relate Counselling Services - Full Time / Permanent – UK Remote - £42,140 - £46,240 FTE per annum

Closing date to apply – Tuesday 19^th August at 23:59

Job ID: 1537

Mission Motorsport

August is here, and it’s been a fantastic summer season so far. Mission Motorsport has been running powerful and inspiring recovery sport experiences — and the best part? There's still a lot more on the horizon.

This edition of our newsletter brings you the latest stories, a look ahead at what’s coming up, and plenty of ways for you to join in. Here's a taste of what’s included:

• Mission Motorsport Racemakers Shine at Silverstone
• Mission: Possible - Mission Motorsport Featured in IMI’s MotorPro Magazine
• Upcoming events - Beneficiary tickets available, and the Forces Family Track Day in Croft
• Fundraising Force - great efforts continuing to raise money for Mission Motorsport

You can read the newsletter by clicking the attachment or visiting our website here.

As always, if you have any questions or just want to say hello, drop us a line at team@missionmotorsport.org.

We can’t wait to see you at an event soon!

DIO Families First Newsletter – Issue 29

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter is now available on the Defence Homes website and Defence Connect.

 

 

Get Safe Online: Parents Leaflet

Get Safe Online states, “today’s children are growing up in a connected world – but that doesn’t mean they always know how to stay safe in it. As a parent, grandparent or guardian, your guidance can make a huge difference”. Get Safe Online has produced a new leaflet, which provides some practical ways to help your child explore the internet with confidence and care this summer holiday.

 

Alternatively, take a look at the advice on the Get Safe Online website: Are you in touch with what your kids do online? - Get Safe Online

 

The leaflet can be read and downloaded from this link:  July25_Parents_Leaflet.pdf

 

Women’s International Defence Rugby – 14 Aug to 4 Sept

 Link for more info:  https://www.interservicerugbychampionship.co.uk/166/2582/idrc-home-page

 

 

Recruit for Spouses Career Academy: Foreign & Commonwealth Programme

Are you a member of the Foreign & Commonwealth community with a qualification from your home country that you need transferring to its UK equivalent?

Then RFS has some very exciting news to share with you!

RFS are thrilled to announce that applications are now open.

RFS will cover the costs of obtaining a Statement of Comparability and facilitate the application process, working with trusted service providers to ensure qualifications meet UK standards.

Eligibility:

- Partner of a Foreign or Commonwealth national serving in HM Forces (Royal Navy, British Army, or Royal Air Force)
- Over 18 years of age
- Partners include spouses, civil partners, fiancés(e), or individuals living with serving personnel in a relationship akin to marriage/civil partnership for at least two years

Application Requirements:

- Partner’s service number
- Date of entry to the UK
- Visa status (if applicable)

To apply for this support and service, sign up to our portal and navigate to 'programmes.'

https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in

 

University of York Research: Fijian Military Spouses Participation Invite

For more information and to register interest: https://forms.gle/GbeXzXmfLaBAtYoKA 

BFBS August Update

 T

To read BFBS’s latest update, please click HERE

Barclays Eagle Labs: Veteran and Military Spousal Founders Programme starting online on 29 Sept 2025

Designed to support those wishing to start or grow their own business, the FREE 5-week programme is completely online and consists of a series of self-learning online modules as well as access to a Barclays Champion who will act as a mentor throughout. The programme is designed to be flexible as well as virtual to allow those with work or caring responsibilities to complete it at their own pace and at their convenience.

 

The next cohort will start on 29 Sept 2025 and individuals who are interested in the programme can apply online using the links below (applications close on the 1 Sept 2025).

 

https://labs.uk.barclays/what-we-offer/diversity-at-eagle-labs/veteran-and-military-spousal-founders/

 

Simplifying overseas service finances

 Simplifying overseas service finances… 

 Defence’s new digital tools and updated allowances help you and your family navigate the financial aspects of overseas assignments – with greater confidence and less paperwork.  

 

 

When serving overseas, you should be able to focus on your work and settling into your new location, without worrying about unexpected costs or navigating complex policies.  

 

Financial stability and a clear understanding of what you and your family can receive are essential components to support operational effectiveness. That’s why Defence is freeing up valuable time and providing welcome reassurance, by simplifying allowance processes and providing tools that reduce admin. 

 

These changes make the move to overseas life smoother for everyone, providing greater clarity and choice – whether you’re posted abroad or keeping a home across borders. 

Gibraltar: Local Charity Event: GibSams Sunrise of Hope

Local Charity Event: GibSams Sunrise of Hope

Art / Craft competition

Looking for something a purposeful to do with the children during the hottest part of the day? GibSams have a fun art competition, which they've organised as part of a big event; Sunrise of Hope Charity Walk.

🌞 Paint a pebble or make a poster - or both! 🌞 Entries must be submitted by 03/09/2025 - details are given on the promotional poster. 

Charity Sunrise Walk, 13th September

Mark your calendars for an inspiring start to your weekend—on Saturday 13 September, GibSams proudly presents Sunrise of Hope, a heartfelt community event to support mental wellbeing and solidarity across Gibraltar. This gathering will be a powerful way to begin the day together—at sunrise—with connection, reflection, and shared purpose.

What to Expect:

Gibraltar: FINANCE CENTRE CAREERS FAIR 2025

The Gibraltar Ministry for Justice, Trade and Industry has organised a Finance Centre Careers Fair. Open to all students- no registration needed. 

Event Details:

• Aurora Ballroom, Sunborn Hotel
• Monday 8th September 2025
• 9:30am – 12:30pm
  

The Careers Fair will bring together leading firms from across the industry, offering insights into a range of career opportunities and the chance to network with professionals and recruiters.

How satisfied are you with family life while serving overseas?

How satisfied are you with family life while serving overseas?

You have until 11.59 pm, Saturday 30 August 2025 to make your voice heard. 

Halfway through Defence’s Overseas Families Survey – have you had your say?

Wherever you are in the world, Defence is here to support you and your family to navigate various aspects of Service life, including:

• spousal / partner employment 
• education and childcare 

• communications 

• Safeguarding.

 

If you’re serving overseas, it’s important that Defence understands your positive experiences and any challenges. Your feedback will help to improve Defence’s policies and initiatives to better meet your family’s needs.

Take the Overseas Families Survey.

Shape your future