Naples Newsletter April 2 a bumper edition!

 Click here for the latest Naples Newsletter

Mission Motorsport March & April Newsletter

                                         

The Mission Motorsport team has continued the fast-paced start to the year, packed with recovery sport and memorable events - and there’s still so much more to come. Check out their latest newsletter to see what they’ve been up to, what’s ahead, and how you can get involved, including:

• National Transition Event 2025: A Resounding Success at Silverstone
• Upcoming events: Veterans@Heritage, Prodrive Tour, Bicester Scramble and a tour and Millington Engines
• Details on how to be a 'Grid Person' for Speedworks at BTCC
• Volunteering Opportunities:  Get involved in running the Mission Motorsport Scalextric
• Fundraising: Simon Griffiths completes his ride from RAF Gibraltar to RAF Benson
• Other news and information

To read the newsletter, please click here

Serve & Protect Credit Union: 2025/26 Cash ISA now launched!

                                       

Serve and Protect Credit Union's latest Fixed Cash ISA is here!

Secure a guaranteed and tax-free 4% AER return on your savings for the 2025/26 tax year, while supporting the wider community of those who serve and protect. Here’s how the new Fixed Cash ISA benefits you:

• Start Small, Save Big: Deposit as little as £5, with contributions up to £20,000 for this tax year.
• Tax-Free Growth: Enjoy a guaranteed 4% AER return to maximise your savings effortlessly.
• Peace of Mind: Your savings are protected up to £85,000 by the FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme).
• Community Impact: Your savings make a meaningful difference by supporting others within the credit union.

Learn more at: https://sandpcu.co.uk/isa-hs-email

BFBS Update - April 2025

                                                                 

The BFBS April Update is now available to read online – please clink this link to view the latest news.

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

                                                   

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

GFIE 429 - Dept for Work & Pensions (DWP) Fraud Officer
Ayr, Scotland
Closing Date: 6 May 2025
Job Description

​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)

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust latest round of grants: Serving Families - On the Move programme

                                   

A further three projects have been awarded bringing the total number to 14 projects worth over £1.25 million! These inclusive projects will improve the quality of life for service families affected by the difficulties and challenges relocation can bring, by implementing support for families not to just adapt but thrive in their new communities - in the latest round of grants from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund.

Recruit for Spouses: Free programmes designed to empower and guide you every step of the way

                                             

The latest Recruit for Spouses flyer outlines a range of upcoming free employability, industry insights, and financial workshops available to members of the Armed Forces community.

The link to sign up is: RFS Portal

In addition to these workshops, RFS are now accepting applications for two further free programmes offering additional support:

1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Programme
This 6-week virtual programme is available to spouses of serving personnel, veterans, and reserves. It covers a range of topics, including:Managing isolation and anxiety
Communication strategies
Building support networks

2. Foreign & Commonwealth Programme
This programme provides support to the Foreign and Commonwealth community, helping individuals convert their home nation qualifications to their UK equivalents, alongside tailored employment support.

For further information please visit: Recruit for Spouses - Championing Military Spouses for Career Success

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

                                                  

The Department of Work and Pensions has 76 new Executive Officer Team Leader opportunities across multiple locations. These are now open for applications until 24 April 2025.

Civil Service Jobs link: Operational Delivery - Team Leader - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK (job reference 366699)

There are jobs available at the following locations: Bangor (Gwynedd), Basildon, Bristol, Burnley, Dundee, Glasgow, Hastings, Motherwell, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Preston, St Austell, Stockport, Stockton-on-Tees, Sunderland, Swansea, Wigan, Wrexham. 

Please note: this vacancy is not on the DWP EO microsite but there is a candidate pack available within the advert content on Civil Service Jobs – see link above. Candidates will be asked to complete two online tests, then if successful complete a 250 word personal statement. If their statement is successful they will then be invited to a live Microsoft Teams interview.

Aurora New Dawn: Athena Domestic Abuse Awareness & Recovery Programme – 3 June to 22 July

                                      

Aurora New Dawn’s Athena Domestic Abuse Awareness/Recovery Group is military specific and all online via zoom. This programme is for 8 weeks taking place on Tuesday evenings 3 June to 22 July, and is open to serving personnel and families worldwide.

Details of how to sign up are on the poster, and to find out more about Aurora New Dawn’s support to the Service community, please go to: https://www.aurorand.org.uk/armed-forces/

Veterans Karting Championships with Mission Motorsport

                                         

Mission Motorsport, the Forces’ Motorsport Charity, supports the recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military service by offering exciting opportunities in motorsport and the wider automotive industry. It’s all about helping individuals regain confidence, build new skills, and have a great time doing it.

Please see the image for details of all event locations and dates.

Registration is now open for all rounds—you can sign up via the links below or simply use the QR code on the poster.

Here are the event dates and sign-up links:

29th April – Leicester: Sign up here
13th May – Newcastle: Sign up here
17th June – Crawley: Sign up here
15th July – Cardiff: Sign up here
16th September – Preston: Sign up here
7th October – Birmingham: Sign up here

These events are free to attend and open exclusively to members of the Armed Forces Community. It’s a brilliant opportunity to reconnect, try something new, and experience the buzz of motorsport in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Events like this happen with amazing support from TeamSport Karting.

To see what events Mission Motorsport are running please visit: website.

Military vs Cancer Rugby Event – Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle, 21 June

                                 

Tackling cancer, one try at a time - Join us for the Military vs Cancer Rugby Event at Kingston Park on 21 June at Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle.

This Armed Forces Day, be part of an unforgettable event that celebrates courage, community, and the fight against cancer. Watch as the UK Armed Forces Rugby Teams take on the North Select XV in thrilling men’s and women’s matches. This is more than just rugby — it’s a day of unity, remembrance, and support for a vital cause.

Honour Your Loved Ones
Make this event even more meaningful by having the name of a loved one featured on the official rugby kit worn by the players. For just £20, you can ensure their name becomes part of this incredible day. With space for 750 names, this is a unique way to celebrate someone special while supporting Military vs Cancer. Names are limited to 20 characters each — so act fast to secure your spot! To add a name to the jersey, include it in the comments when purchasing your reward online via the link or QR code. Let’s fill that kit with love, strength, and remembrance!

In Memory of Heroes
This year’s game and kit will honour the memory of Cpl Tim Crossin RM and L/Cpl Nathan Summersgill-Smith RM, two brave individuals who fought valiantly but sadly lost their battles with cancer. Let’s come together to celebrate their legacy and support others in need.

What to Expect:

Top-Tier Rugby Action: Witness elite players from the Armed Forces and North Select XV.

Military Displays: marching bands, veterans sweetheart Sarah Dennis, and interactive exhibits.

Family Fun: A day filled with entertainment for all ages.

Community Spirit: Reconnect with friends and support a cause that matters.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event! Tickets are available now via the Newcastle Falcons website or the Defence Discount Service for military personnel and veterans. 

Defending the Try Line, Honouring the Front Line

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

                                                            

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

GFIE 426 - Dept for Work & Pensions (DWP) Application Operations Engineer
Blackpool
Closing Date: 28 April 2025
Job Description

​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)

Young Carers within Armed Forces Families - Nexus Easter Newsletter

                                      

Nexus is a three-year project funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Trust. The project aims to improve support, resources and access to services for young carers within armed forces families.

To find out more, and the latest updates, you can read the Easter Newsletter.

Headspace: New Ebb Chat Service now available

                                            

Army personnel and Army civil servants are eligible to sign up to Headspace for free, and also to extend this free subscription offer to five friends and family.

To sign up, please go to https://work.headspace.com/britisharmy/member-enroll

Please use your @mod.gov.uk, @armymail.mod.uk or @csmail.mod.uk email address to verify your account when prompted.

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

  

Here is the link to read this issue (and previous issues) on line: Service Family Accommodation - GOV.UK

 

Civvy Street Magazine – May 2025 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 DWPEO Microsite.

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).

Speaking about the new guidance, Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said:
“Armed Forces families play a vital role in supporting our Service personnel to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad. Fittingly, this announcement coincides with the Month of the Military Child, which is a time to speak up for our Service children.
“Service children face many challenges due to the unique nature of Service life, but it’s important that they are able to benefit from their exceptional experiences. 

“That’s why this joint guidance with the Department for Education, explains how we can break down barriers and help our Service children to thrive in education.”

Minister for Education, Stephen Morgan MP, said:
“Through our Plan for Change we are focused on breaking the link between young people’s background and their future success.
“Military families make a huge sacrifice for serving this country and their children face unique challenges that can impact their learning from family members being in active warzones, to frequently having to move schools.
“We provide a range of support for service families and their children to help break down the barriers they face. This includes additional funding for schools through the Service Pupil Premium, giving priority to service children in the admissions process and ensuring there is a school place for every service pupil returning to England from overseas bases. To build on this we have published new guidance for schools to help them to provide the targeted support service children need to achieve and thrive.”

What educational needs do Service pupils have?
Life as a Service child has unique challenges, which are not often recognised in wider society and is therefore not always reflected in an educational setting. Service pupils often move schools several times and experience family separation as their Service parent(s) are deployed. It is during these periods that Service children need extra support from local authorities and schools.

How will the new guidance help Service pupils?
This guidance brings together existing guidance into one, easily accessible, place. It outlines the support that schools and local authorities should provide to Service children, and signposts to useful resources. 

This includes new guidance on the Service Pupil Premium, which recently announced more funding for schools to offer pastoral and academic support to eligible Service pupils as they move schools and cope with family separation.
It also encourages local authorities to appoint a Service pupil champion to provide individual support for Service children and outlines their responsibilities and duties. 

This aligns with the Armed Forces Covenant, which is a promise by the nation that the Armed Forces Community should be treated fairly, and not be disadvantaged when accessing public and commercial services, with special provision provided, where appropriate.

Help schools and local authorities to support your child
Please read and share this new guidance with the below:

• school leaders, school staff, trust leaders, trust boards and governing bodies in all maintained schools, academies, and non-maintained special schools in England
• local authorities in England

Useful information 

Read the new non-statutory guidance on supporting Service pupils in schools. 

Find out how you can celebrate the Month of the Military Child. 

Visit Defence’s new Families Hub, which signposts the support, guidance and organisations that can help to navigate Service family life. The hub includes a section on education and childcare.

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 

​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)

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/

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

Applications now open: https://naafi.co.uk/fund/

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.

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

Naples Newsletter March 2

 

Click here for this week’s Naples Newsletter

SaluteMyJob: 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.

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 26 March 2025

                                                 

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

​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)

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 

Dandelion Day 4th April - Wear Yellow!

  

April is the international Month of the Military Child

Little Troopers celebrates the Month of the Military Child – come and get involved!

                                     

April is the international Month of the Military Child and the charity Little Troopers is celebrating by launching a new dandelion-themed book for military children, as well as organised a special month packed full of workshops, activities and events for all forces families and schools with service children.

Dandelion Book
Launching on Dandelion Day – Friday 4th April – “Dandelions” is a brand-new book from Little Troopers’ resident author, Donna David. The book follows the story of a military child who is about to move home and learns all about why the dandelion is the official flower of the military child – strong, resilient and putting down roots wherever the wind takes it. Ideal for children aged eight to eleven, Little Troopers will be giving away 100 copies throughout April.

School Pack and Dandelion Day
Schools can now download the brand-new Little Troopers “Month of the Military Child School Pack”. Education settings are encouraged to hold their very own ‘Dandelion Day’ on Friday 4th April where students can come into school wearing something yellow to signal the school’s recognition and inclusion of military children. The Little Troopers school pack features new activities and classroom ideas to engage service and civilian children, as well as tips on involving the local military community in the special day. You can download the pack to share with your child’s school here.

At home activities
Families are encouraged to celebrate the Month of the Military Child at home by exploring the charity’s list of fun, dandelion-themed activities, which include painting, mask-making, playdough, baking and crafting. Get creative and share your photos online.

Events
Little Troopers is running events throughout April, bringing together as many military children as possible.

5th April - Online interactive science workshop hosted by Devon Science. Sign-up here.


13th April - Tidworth 10K and Family Fun Run. Everyone is invited to come and celebrate the Month of the Military Child while raising crucial funds for Little Troopers. There will also be entertainment and family activities throughout the morning for military families. Find out more and register here.

16th April - Little Troopers will be returning to the Royal Hospital Chelsea to host an intergenerational workshop during the Month of the Military Child. The event offers forces families the unique opportunity to meet and spend time with the iconic Chelsea Pensioners. Anyone interested in attending can now register here.

26th April – Online interactive bake-a-long workshop with CookStars. Sign-up here.

As well as giving away 100 copies of the new Little Troopers Dandelion Book, the charity will have lots of other giveaways for families that are signed-up to the charity’s newsletter.

The spring edition of the Little Troopers Gazette will also be available to request for free towards the end of the month. The newspaper will be packed with articles written by current military children, as well as featuring activities and ideas to mark this special month in the military calendar.

Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers, comments: “Little Troopers is a charity that ensures military children from all three services are recognised, included and celebrated. That’s why we always have a busy calendar of events and activities during April the official Month of the Military Child, so that wherever you live, you can get involved in the celebrations with your little troopers.

“2025 is set to be a really special April and we hope lots of schools and families get involved in our new Dandelion Day and read our special new book. We also hope to see lots of you in-person at our Tidworth 10K and family fun run! Let’s all take time this month to show all the little troopers out there just how amazing they really are.”

For more information and to get involved visit www.littletroopers.net/month-of-the-military-child

Blue Light Card: Spring Saver Weekend 28–31 March

 

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. 

Not a member yet? Eligible staff can sign up now at and start saving!

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

                                       

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

 

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/

 

 

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
Closing date: 4 Apr 25

GFIE- 423 - Fiscal Officer
1 x Glasgow, 1 x Hamilton
Job Description (hyperlink to Google Drive doc)
Closing date: 11 Apr 25

​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).