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.

RFS Virtual Event with Preet Chandi MBE – 2 Apr

Recruit for Spouses (RFS) are absolutely THRILLED to announce their upcoming session with Polar Preet Chandi MBE!

 

RFS says: “We can hardly contain our excitement about this extraordinary opportunity for the military community! Polar Preet—who conquered Antarctica SOLO three times and holds FOUR Guinness World Records—will be sharing her inspirational journey with us.

 

“This FREE virtual session isn't just about polar exploration. It's about how the remarkable resilience you've developed as a military spouse can become your competitive advantage in the tech and cyber industries.

 

“We're counting down the days and can't wait to see you there.

 

“👉 Limited places available, so register now by emailing: careeracademy@recruitforspouses.co.uk”

 

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Scotland - Latest Civil Service Job Vacancies for Service Leavers, Veterans and Spouses/Partners

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

GFIE- 422 - Document Coordinator

1 x Paisley

Job Description Click to view    
Closing date: 4 Apr 25

 

GFIE- 423 - Fiscal Officer

1 x Glasgow, 1 x Hamilton

Job Description Click 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)

 

 

UK Government partners with young people to help develop new national youth strategy

The government has launched its national listening exercise to let young people have their say on support services, facilities and opportunities they need outside the school gates. Through youth engagement charity My Life My Say and the #iwill Movement young people will be able to engage with Government both in-person and online. The Deliver You online survey is now open and will close on Wednesday 16 April, it is for young people aged 10 – 21 years old (aged 25 with SEND).

See Gov.uk article here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-partners-with-young-people-to-help-develop-new-national-youth-strategy

Click here to access the survey

 

AFCFT: Service Women Seen & Heard programme

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust recently announced over £700K to support projects that provide targeted support for serving women through their Service Women: Seen & Heard programme.


Find out how these projects : https://covenantfund.org.uk/2025/03/11/a-boost-in-support-for-specific-needs-of-service-women/?ct=t(EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_3_24_2022_12_4_COPY_01) ] will work to empower both regular and reserve service women, helping them to make informed decisions and access vital resources to improve health and wellbeing.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Watch recording of recent Lunch and Learn webinar about the Empowering Bereaved Military Families programme

 

Want to find out more about the Empowering Bereaved Military Families programme? Watch a recording of our recent Lunch & Learn webinar on our website  now:  https://covenantfund.org.uk/programme/empowering-bereaved-military-families-programme/#webinar-for-applicants

This programme offers a single portfolio grant of up to £1.8 million, to achieve long term, transformational change in the non-statutory support provided to bereaved military families.

Expressions of interest must be submitted by 12 noon, 2 April 2025

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update 12 March 25

HCDC Update 

 

Last month, the House of Commons Defence Committee (HCDC) published its report following an inquiry into Service accommodation that took place last year.  This outlined a number of recommendations made by the Committee that we have considered carefully.  

 

HCDC has now published our response to the report which outlines the steps we are taking to improve our service to you.   

 

DIO remains committed to improving the quality of housing for you and your families and we will continue to work closely with our suppliers to deliver against the actions outlined. 

  

 

Radio Teleswitch (RTS) electricity meters. 

 

The technology that supports RTS electricity meters will switch off nationally from 30 June 2025.  

 

If you have one of these meters, you will receive a letter from your electricity supplier informing you that they are required to switch you to a smart meter. Not switching meters before this time could result in disruption to your electricity supply. You can read more about this here. 

 

Whether you pay for your own electricity or your fuel is supplied by the MOD, if you have an RTS meter, you should expect a letter to arrange an appointment. 

 

If you have any questions or would like to confirm if you have an RTS meter, you can contact your electricity supplier directly. 

 

From sailing to service dogs: over £850,000 awarded to improve the quality of life for veterans negatively impacted by their service

Breaking down barriers; building bridges; addressing trauma. The Armed Forces Covenant Trust’s (the Trust) Fulfilling Futures programme has supported six outstanding projects totalling more than £850,000 to improve the lives of veterans negatively impacted by their service.

Support to lead fulfilling lives

Each project represents new, tailored work to support groups of veterans including those with physical injuries, those who have experienced military sexual trauma, those living with PTSD and other complex mental health issues, LGBT+ veterans and women veterans. Though each tackles a different cohort, each aims to mitigate the effects of the barriers preventing them from having a fulfilling life after service.

Quest Magazine – March Edition Out Now!

Image with link to read online - Quest Magazine | Quest Online

To view the Quest newsletter please go to:  March Quest Magazine is Out Now.💂

 

Dept for Work & Pensions: Roundup of recent DWP announcements

 

Roundup of recent DWP announcements:


Changes to strengthen Statutory Sick Pay


Deadline to fill National Insurance gaps to increase State Pension


Move to Universal Credit update


Corporate Appointee update


Transfer of Attendance Allowance claims to Pension Age Disability Payment

Give us time

To find out more  www.giveustime.org.uk

AFF Independent School Fees Survey – closes 16 Mar

The Army Families Federation have deployed a survey which aims to measure the financial impact to families after the implementation of the policy introducing 20% VAT on independent school fees.  If your family is utilising independent education, whether claiming CEA or not, they would very much appreciate you completing the survey at the link below.

Please note that the survey is due to close on 16 March.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/V3NQR3J

 

DWP Work Coach Vacancies available - Avon, Somerset and Gloucestershire

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have 29 Work Coach roles available for applications across Avon, Somerset and Gloucestershire, open from 10/03/25 to 24/03/25.

 

Civil Service Jobs link:  Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Avon, Somerset and Gloucestershire (Ref: 727) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

 

Candidates who are successful to interview stage for this campaign will be asked to attend a live interview with the interviewers via Microsoft Teams. Information about the live interview process is included in the advert and on the microsite link below.

 

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

 

REMINDER National No Smoking Day 2025 – 12 Mar

 

• Take back your life this No Smoking Day – Wednesday 12th March 2025.
• Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your health.
• It’s never too late to quit smoking. Even if you’ve tried quitting before, give it another go this No Smoking Day.
• When you stop smoking, there are almost immediate improvements to your health.
• There’s no need to go it alone – it’s much easier to stop smoking when you get the right support and there are lots of options to choose from.
• Getting free expert support from your local stop smoking service is proven to give you the best chance of quitting successfully. Some are now able to offer free vape starter kits too.
• NHS Better Health offers a range of free quitting support including the NHS Quit Smoking app, Personal Quit Plan, 28-day email programme, local stop smoking service look-up tool, as well as advice on stop smoking aids including information on how vaping can help you quit smoking.
• On average, you could save around £2,500 per year by quitting smoking.

 

Op ASCEND – Careers After Service

Op ASCEND is a free, government-backed service to support veterans in growing their careers.

Whether you’re a veteran seeking employment or an employer looking to attract skilled veterans to your workforce, find out what signing up to the Op ASCEND service can do for you.

For more information visit: https://careersafterservice.campaign.gov.uk