Civvy Street Magazine – May 25 Edition now available online

The latest edition of Civvy Street magazine is now available to read online at: https://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk/html5/reader/production/default.aspx?pubname=&edid=9e5aa915-ce5f-49af-9183-1f88a6967914

 

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment – Southern England (multiple locations)

The Department of Work and Pensions has 100 new Executive Officer work coach opportunities across Southern England. These are now open for applications until 17 Apr 2025.

 

Civil Service Jobs link:  Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Southern England (Ref: 729) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

 

There are jobs available at the following locations: Abingdon, Aldershot, Andover, Aylesbury, Banbury, Basingstoke, Bedford, Biggleswade, Borehamwood, Bracknell, Chesham, Didcot, Eastleigh, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, High Wycombe, Hythe, Leighton Buzzard, Letchworth, Luton, Maidenhead, Milton Keynes, Newbury, Oxford, Reading, Salisbury, Slough, Southampton, St Albans, Stevenage, Waltham Cross, Watford, Witney

 

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

Gibraltar: Four Corner's Road Safety Event for Children

Between 17:00 and 19:00 on Thu 20 Mar 25, JPSU and CST held a road safety event as part of an ongoing campaign to provide education to all service families within 4C’s. This was well supported seeing many children and parents engaging and having a good time. The Emergency services supported with Fire appliances, Police car, and 3 Ambulances, with all children having the opportunity to climb over the vehicles and of course play with the sirens. There was a plethora of activities for different age groups. JPSU provided reflective stickers for bikes and scooters with thanks to the GAF fund, with other activities including word searches, a small children road course and a scavenger hunt, which taught all taking part the importance of road safety, with gifts handed out for correctly finding all letters around 4C’s. There was also the launch of the road safety poster competition, whereby children can enter, with three age group winners being selected by CBF in the coming week. All winners will then get to see their posters printed and placed around 4C’s, whilst receiving a gift voucher. Overall, this was a very successful and well received event which has allowed a firm basis for other events to take place as part of this campaign.

Forces Employment Charity Monthly Update - Award Nominations, Marathons, and Events

 Forces Employment Charity’s monthly update is now available, and the latest news includes:

 

• Heropreneurs Awards 2025 nominations are now open
• A round-up of events across the UK and online webinars
• Marathon preparations
• Get to know Forces Employment Charity’s military women employment lead
• Satisfaction survey
• Links for further information

 

Read the update in full at this link: Get involved: Award Nominations, Marathons, and Events

SSAFA Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF) Conference – Registration Now Open

The Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF) Conference 2025 is taking place on 2 June 2025. This is an empowering and informative event designed for current service personnel and their families with additional needs or disabilities. Hosted by the FANDF committee and facilitated by SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, this conference will offer expert insights and practical advice for service families.

 

The event will be FANDF’s first hybrid FANDF event. You can join in person or virtually, making it accessible for those with caring responsibilities or living further afield.

 

The event will feature guest speakers from Defence (MOD) and support services offering valuable advice, information, and insights on available support for families. Our theme for this conference is 35 years strong: Championing Families, Shaping Change and we hope to celebrate some of the successes of support available for service families, whilst also highlighting how we can continue to shape change.

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest Vacancies in London area (multiple roles/locations)- available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme:

GFIE 428 - Work Coach – Dept for Work & Pensions (DWP)

London – 18 vacancies across multiple inner/outer London locations

Closing Date: 28 April 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)

 

New guidance for schools and local authorities on supporting Service pupils

On 1 April 2025, the Ministry of Defence and Department for Education published non-statutory guidance to help state-funded schools and local authorities in England to understand and address the needs of Service pupils in schools (reception to year 11).

NAAFI Fund 2025 – Applications NOW OPEN!

NAAFI have just announced the launch of the NAAFI Fund Date for 2025! 

 

The NAAFI Fund was launched back in 2020 and has supported 467 projects so far, donating over £4 million to help improve the lives of service personnel and their families around the world.  To read more about the projects that NAAFI have supported to date:  https://naafi.co.uk/giving-back/

 

To read the blog post announcing new information regarding the NAAFI Fund 2025: NAAFI Fund: Applications Open Soon - NAAFI

 

Forces Employment Charity Monthly Update - Award Nominations, Marathons, and Events

 Forces Employment Charity’s monthly update is now available, and the latest news includes:

 Heropreneurs Awards 2025 nominations are now open

• A round-up of events across the UK and online webinars
• Marathon preparations
• Get to know Forces Employment Charity’s military women employment lead
• Satisfaction survey
• Links for further information

 

Read the update in full at this link: Get involved: Award Nominations, Marathons, and Events

 

FamCAS 25: Have you shared your views on Service family life? Time’s running out!

The Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS) 2025 closes in 1 week! Don’t miss your opportunity to tell us what you think about Service family life.

Each year, Defence invites a random sample of Service partners to complete the Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS). This survey is your chance to tell us about your experiences and views in relation to various aspects of Service family life.


You can see if you are in this year’s sample, and can access the survey, by using the online tool. The survey closes on Monday 7 April 2025 at 23:59.

Serve & Protect Credit Union: April Update

 

 

📢 Free financial webinars this April from Serve and Protect - don't miss out!

 

🌍 Eco-Friendly Ways to Save Money

📝 Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money

🚀 Credit Score 101: Boost Your Score

☔ The Road to Financial Resilience

🔍 Before You Borrow: Things to Know

 

🔗 Register here: https://sandpcu.co.uk/webinars

 

NEW Fixed Cash ISA

Serve and Protect have launched their new Fixed Cash ISA for the 2025/26 tax year 💷

Secure a guaranteed and tax-free 4% AER return over the next year and watch your savings grow!

🔗 Learn more via their website: https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/save/cash-isa/

 

Podcast Episodes 11 & 12 🎧

Loan sharks can have a devastating impact on people's lives and becoming a victim is easier than you may think 👤

Our friends at Serve and Protect recently welcomed Stop Loan Sharks to their podcast to explore some misconceptions, stories from victims, and the support available! 

🔗 Watch here: https://youtu.be/6z-xdYbehBs?si=di6_UU_0OCTptnkB

For Debt Awareness Week, our friends at Serve and Protect welcomed the Money and Pensions Service to their podcast to explore the stigma around debt 🗣️

If you find it difficult to talk about money with your loved ones, this episode includes some manageable steps to start a conversion.

🔗 Watch here: https://youtu.be/X_PkxsAG1co?si=voGbF96Aovyafy9l

 

Stress Awareness Month - April

April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to understand the causes and cures of stress 😔

If your finances make you feel stressed, Serve and Protect are here to help you save and build your financial resilience.

🔗 Learn more via their website: https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/

 

 

DIO Families First Newsletter – Issue 25

Link to read this issue (and previous issues) on line: Service Family Accommodation - GOV.UK

 

Blue Light Card: Spring Saver Weekend Reminder

  

We’re excited to share that Blue Light Card is bringing you the Spring Saver Weekend – think Black Friday, but in the spring! Don’t miss out during this event we are bringing you some special Spring discounts!

When? Friday 28th – Monday 31st March

Who? Blue Light Card members

What? Exclusive discounts from top brands!

Join 5 million members already enjoying savings from brands like Halfords, Odeon, AEG, Parkdean Resorts, Gymshark, New Balance, and many more! Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe, upgrading your home and garden, or treating yourself, there’s something for everyone.

 Here is a sneak peak of some exclusive offers across the Spring Saver Weekend

• AEG
• Wagamama
• Debenhams
• Shark
• Ninja
• Seasalt Cornwall
• Sony
• Halfords
• And so many more!

 Access Blue Light Card's Spring Saver Weekend details here:

https://www.bluelightcard.co.uk/spring-saver?utm_source=Organisations&utm_medium=Organisations&utm_campaign=Springsaverweekend

Not a member yet? Eligible staff can sign up now at  https://www.bluelightcard.co.uk/index.php?utm_source=Organisations&utm_medium=Organisations&utm_campaign=Springsaverweekend and start saving!

 

Recruit for Spouses: March Newsletter

The March newsletter from Recruit for Spouses is out now.  To read this on line, please go to:  recruit4spouses.cmail19.com/t/r-e-thfluid-nhlmhutrr-m/

 

 

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

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

GFIE 427- Review Officer – HMRC

Nottingham

Closing Date: 23 April 2025

Job Description Click here to view

​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)

Give Us Time: Spring & Summer Respite Breaks

 

A summary of the breaks we have coming up for April to July. 

For further info: www.giveustime.org.uk

Salute MyJob: Pathways programme to enhance cyber leadership opportunities for veterans

 

SaluteMyJob expands their innovative pathways programme with exciting partnership with Ofsted-skills provider to enhance cyber leadership opportunities for veterans and police officers

For a decade, social enterprise SaluteMyJob has been helping ex-military personnel upskill into areas with a notable cybersecurity skills gap, with many candidates going on to make their mark in multi-national companies. And now, an exciting partnership is set to fast-track more veterans and police officers into a career in cybersecurity with their Accelerated Cyber Leadership Pathway.

SALUTEMYJOB is delighted to announce their new partnership with althaus to further up-skill veterans and police officers aspiring to become leaders within the cybersecurity industry.

The fully-funded althaus x SMJ Accelerated Cyber Leadership Pathway into Cybersecurity Management, offers practical training, industry-recognised certifications, and direct links to employers looking to hire from the military and police talent pool.

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 26 March 25

Reduce the risk of lead in drinking water

Lead pipes may still exist in Service Family Accommodation built before 1970, but DIO and our repairs contractors are committed to removing them during modernisation.

The risk of exposure to lead is very low but the following steps can help to reduce lead levels in drinking water in older properties:

• Only drink water from the mains supply in your kitchen.
• Before you drink, cook or clean your teeth, run the cold taps first thing in the morning (the amount to fill a washing up bowl should be sufficient) to flush out water that has been standing in pipes overnight. 
• If you have been away from your home for a long period, run hot and cold taps for at least 5 minutes to prevent legionella.

The UK has a very safe water system, but these precautions will help to lower the risk. For more information visit the Drinking Water Inspectorate’s website

Reporting Sewerage Spills

Should you notice a sewage spillage or leak, please report this directly to the Pinnacle Helpdesk on 0800 031 8628 and follow Option 1 for Repairs.

SFA Roadshows

 

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Crown Commercial Service Senior Project Manager Role, multiple locations - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners

The following vacancy is now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme, at the Civil Service grade of Band 5 (Grade 7), and a salary range of £56,031 - £62,261:

GFIE-424 - Senior Project Manager - Crown Commercial Service

Liverpool / Norwich / Birmingham or Newport

Closing Date: Sunday 13th April 2025

Job Description Click here to view

​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)

 

Visa Fee Increase – 9th April 2025

Some Visa fees will be increasing from 9^th April 2025; a full list of the increases can be found here.

A summary of the increases that may affect our Service Community are in the image.

 

 

Department for Work & Pensions (DWP): Don't miss out on your State Pension entitlement

The 5 April 2025 deadline for paying voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill any gaps in your record between 2006 and 2018 is approaching.  To support anyone wishing to check their records, or make a payment, there is now a DWP video and an online form to request a callback.

Watch the DWP video How to check your State Pension and pay for gaps in your National Insurance record on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_8GkTNgyXqs

DWP’s online form is available to request a call back at: https://ow.ly/oGbl50VarlC

VE Day 80 – Hold a Brew and Bake for Combat Stress

This year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, and Combat Stress would very much appreciate your help celebrating it with a Brew and Bake Coffee Morning - a great way to bring people together over coffee and cake while raising funds for veterans’ mental health.

 

The official Brew and Bake day is Thursday 8 May 2025 – VE Day, but events can be held on any date that suits. Every pound raised will help Combat Stress provide their life-changing mental health treatment to veterans today.

 

Find out more and sign up here to get sent a Fundraising Pack: https://events.combatstress.org.uk/event/brewandbake/home 

Blue Light Card: Spring Saver Weekend 28–31 Mar

We’re excited to share that Blue Light Card is bringing you the Spring Saver Weekend – think Black Friday, but in the spring! From Friday 28th to Monday 31st March, members will have exclusive access to incredible discounts from top brands. Plus, for this special event, some brands are offering boosted offers, giving you even bigger savings for a limited time!

Join 5 million members already enjoying discounts from Halfords, Odeon, AEG, Parkdean Resorts, Gymshark, New Balance, and many more. Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe, upgrading your home and garden, or treating yourself, there’s something for everyone!

Don’t miss out! Access full event details here:

https://www.bluelightcard.co.uk/spring-saver?utm_source=Organisations&utm_medium=Organisations&utm_campaign=Springsaverweekend

Not a member yet? Eligible staff can sign up at https://www.bluelightcard.co.uk/index.php?utm_source=Organisations&utm_medium=Organisations&utm_campaign=Springsaverweekend and start saving today!

 

 

National Memorial Arboretum: Talent in the Ranks Artist Development Programme 2025

 Email address for more info:  Rasmith@thenma.org.uk

 

Aurora New Dawn: Armed Forces Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Stalking Helpline launches on 31 Mar

On 31st March 2025 @09:00 Aurora New Dawn are delighted to be launching the first helpline for Royal Naval, British Army, and Royal Air Force personnel and their family members who are victims and survivors of:

• Domestic abuse
• Sexual violence
• Stalking

Coverage is available for all UK forces personnel and their families including those deployed abroad. The service is independent, confidential, and free - with phone and WhatsApp functionality available.

Callers from outside of the UK may need to dial 00 44 333 091 2527 and may incur charges from their phone service provider.

Cancer Relief Gibraltar Easter Egg Hunt

Cancer Relief Gibraltar’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt is back for its second year!
Spring is fast approaching and once again, we’re partnering up with the Alameda Botanic Gardens for our popular Easter egg hunt which will take place on Sunday 13th April 2025 from 9:30am to 1pm.

Bring the whole family down to the beautiful Alameda Gardens for a morning packed with adventure, family fun and Easter magic. Follow the clues, explore the gardens, and enjoy your treasure at the end of the trail!

Aside from hunting for clues, there’s plenty more to keep Gibraltar’s little explorers entertained. Each ticket provides a child with Easter Egg hunt through the beautiful Alameda Gardens, along with one hour of access to children's activities in the Education Zone - face-painting, storytelling, crafts, and more!

Remember that after you have completed your fun and adventure, the day is yours to enjoy the beautiful Gardens!

This much-loved community event is perfect for children of all ages, offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, take part in exciting activities, whilst helping to raise vital funds for Cancer Relief. Every ticket purchased helps make a difference.
Remember, adult admission is complementary with purchase of child ticket.
Meeting Point: Education Zone, Alameda Gardens. Check in at Molly Bloom's statue!
We will be operating staggered times to avoid congestion of activities. Spaces are limited so don’t miss out on the fun! Round up the kids, pick your start time, and secure your place today. Remember each ticket includes the Easter Egg Hunt, along with one-hour access to our kids zone upon completion of your garden quest!

We're really egg-cited to see you there! PLEASE EMAIL fundraising@cancerrelief.gi upon purchase with any allergy or dietary requirements.

Women in Defence Awards 2025 – Nominations now open, including new International category

The Women in Defence Awards 2025 are now open for nominations, until 2 May 25.  

This year there is a new International category; the International Award is designed to recognise individual women or groups of women completing exceptional work in support of the defence of their own country.  This award is open to individual women, groups or teams, as members of the Armed Forces, Civil or Public services, or those who work in Defence industries or associated bodies.  Locally Employed Civilians (LECs) in overseas locations have been confirmed as eligible for this category.

 

Details of all categories and how to nominate can be found at: Women in Defence UK | Awards 2025 Criteria

Help for Heroes: Seeking Help and Recovery College Courses

Help for Heroes have a new leaflet to explain how they can support, and how to access this.  To view the leaflet please click HERE

There is also a range of courses available through the Help for Heroes Recovery College.  Information and the prospectus can be found on the Help for Heroes website: https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/get-help/recovery-college/self-help-guides/

 

For further details on Help for Heroes services and how to get in touch, please go to: https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/

 

 

HM Government of Gibraltar: Essay competition for Commonwealth Day

The Government is marking Commonwealth Day by launching an essay competition for young people from across different school and university age groups.

There are 2.7 billion people in the Commonwealth, of whom more than 60% are under the age of 30.

The Government remains committed to raise the profile of Gibraltar in the Commonwealth and of the Commonwealth in Gibraltar, particularly among the younger demographic.

This policy has been reflected in the decision to send young people to represent Gibraltar to the Commonwealth Youth Parliament, the latest meeting of which took place in New Zealand, and to the Commonwealth Youth Forum, which met in Samoa, both in 2024. It has also supported to the creation of the UKOTA Youth Summit, which brings together young people from all the Overseas Territories, and the attendance of a representative of Gibraltar to the UK Youth Parliament.

The essay competition will be broken down into age groups, with a winner for each category, being upper primary, lower primary, and secondary school together with Gibraltar College. The fourth category is open to Gibraltar university students either in the UK or at the University of Gibraltar. The winner in each category will receive £150.