Monday, 28 April 2025
Thursday, 24 April 2025
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Month of the Military Child 2025 – Forces Employment Charity
The dandelion is a symbol of the Month of the Military child because it represents the resilience and adaptability of military children. Dandelions are known for their hardy nature, ability to thrive in diverse environments, and ability to grow roots wherever they land, much like how military children adapt to new locations and circumstances due to their parents' service.
The Forces Employment Charity provides essential support for young people aged 16 to 24. The charity helps them with CV writing, job applications, apprenticeships, training opportunities, and career guidance.
The Forces Employment Charity support young people from Forces families:
- Support with CV writing and interview skills
- Access to skills training
- Motivation and self-belief coaching
- Corporate mentoring from industry specialists
- Advice on college courses, training, and apprenticeships
Register today to speak to an advisor.
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Join the conversation! Are you a military child aged 11-30? Take part in the Youth Voice Census 2025 to share how you feel about school, work, and life. Let your voice be heard!
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Join Never Such Innocence in their poetry and art competition, this year's theme is memories! Above is our take on the challenge.
Open to all single Services children aged 6-18
Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest Vacancies in multiple locations - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners
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The following vacancy is now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme:
GFIE 430 - Dept for Work & Pensions (DWP) Service Delivery
Stratford, Barking, Hounslow, Ealing, Forest Hill and Gloucester
Closing Date: 9 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)
DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update – 17 April
Defence Secretary commits to improving homes for Service families
Earlier today, Defence Secretary John Healey announced a new Consumer Charter to improve SFA for personnel and families. This forms part of the Defence Housing Review that is underway following the MOD’s landmark deal to bring 36,000 UK SFA homes back under our ownership.
Job opportunity: DWP Universal Credit Job Centre Work Coach - Central England
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has Executive Officer Work Coach opportunities available across Central England. Applications can be made through the Civil Service Jobs website before 11.55pm on Wed 30th April 2025.Civil Service Jobs link: Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - Central England (Ref: 730) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK
More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on DWP’s EO Microsite
Job opportunity with a charity - Senior Social Media Executive (remote, full time, permanent)
There’s a job opportunity at Relate (now part of Family Action, a national charity) that might be of interest to Service leavers, veterans, spouses, partners and the wider military community.Senior Social Media Executive (Remote, Full Time, Permanent Job Opportunity)
- Job Reference: 1439
- Location: Homeworking
- Hours of Work: 37 hours per week (full-time)
- Salary: £32,311 FTE + £480 home working allowance per annum
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 11 May 2025
Family Action is a national charity that supports people through change, challenge and crisis across England and Wales. On 1st January 2025, Relate, the largest provider of relationship support, joined the organisation helping us reach even more people and support the creation of secure foundations for children and young people, and safe, supportive relationships for all.
For over 150 years Family Action has seen first-hand the power of family and relationships to shape lives, for better or worse. That's why we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.
Whatever family means or looks like to us, it's relationships that matter. With Relate at Family Action, we are able to extend the support we provide with counselling, information, mediation and support to individuals, couples and families from all backgrounds and sexualities, as well as provide expert training for relationship support practitioners.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our organisation and help shape the future of Relate’s social media presence as part of Family Action. You will oversee Relate’s paid and organic social media activity, build brand awareness and drive sales of services and toolkits, whilst also supporting wider Relate at Family Action work aligning both brands.
For over 150 years Family Action has seen first-hand the power of family and relationships to shape lives, for better or worse. That's why we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.
Whatever family means or looks like to us, it's relationships that matter. With Relate at Family Action, we are able to extend the support we provide with counselling, information, mediation and support to individuals, couples and families from all backgrounds and sexualities, as well as provide expert training for relationship support practitioners.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our organisation and help shape the future of Relate’s social media presence as part of Family Action. You will oversee Relate’s paid and organic social media activity, build brand awareness and drive sales of services and toolkits, whilst also supporting wider Relate at Family Action work aligning both brands.
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.
What's included:
If you would like more information, please email: CS.ANDA@ssafa.org.uk
For details of FANDF membership, please visit: Forces Additional Needs and Disability Forum FANDF | Disability support | SSAFA
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.
What's included:
- Food provided on the day
- Travel reimbursement available for FANDF members
- Accommodation available for FANDF members traveling over 2.5 hours
- FANDF members or those eligible for FANDF membership.
- Professionals in the sector - please note, priority will be given to FANDF members for in-person attendance.
If you would like more information, please email: CS.ANDA@ssafa.org.uk
For details of FANDF membership, please visit: Forces Additional Needs and Disability Forum FANDF | Disability support | SSAFA
Tuesday, 15 April 2025
Aurora New Dawn - Armed Forces Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Stalking Helpline launches is now live.
Please click the image to enlarge.
This Helpline is for any members of the Royal Navy British Army and Royal Air Force and their family members, including those deployed abroad, who are victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence or Stalking.
The Helpline operates 6 days a week. It is independent, confidential, and free, and having consulted with victim/survivors we have made sure to be available at different times.
Launched on the 31st March 2025, and funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, and the Army Benevolent Fund the Helpline has already exceeded the number of contacts anticipated.
At Aurora, we understand that the Armed Forces Community is unique, and we know that service life brings with it a number of challenges which can make it harder to talk about these issues.
The Helpline has been designed with an understanding of these specific needs in mind. Many of our specialist team are from Forces families or are ex service personnel. They understand service life, and how difficult it can be to talk about what is happening.
Those who choose to perpetrate Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Stalking come from all walks of life. We want to make sure that victim/survivors with links to the armed forces get specialist support that has been designed with them and for them.
For general and professional enquiries, to contact the team, or for information on how to refer to the service call 023 92 479 254 or email us.
Need help?
Get support from the Armed Forces Helpline via
Phone +44 (0)333 0912 527 (GMT): 0900-1500 Monday to Friday
Get support from the Armed Forces Helpline via
WhatsApp on +44 (0)333 0912 527: Tuesday 0900-1500 / Wednesday & Thursday 1700-2000 / Sunday 1000-1400
Celebrating Forces Families Awards - Countdown to 25 Apr 2025
Date: 25th April 2025Location: De Vere Connaught Rooms, London
As April marks the Month of the Military Child, it’s the perfect moment to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary strength, resilience, and spirit of children from Armed Forces families. That’s why this year’s Celebrating Forces Families Awards 2025 is proud to shine a special spotlight on these remarkable young people – and to honour them in a truly unforgettable way.
Jacob’s Medal – brand new for 2025 – has been presented to 31 military children who have been nominated for the Young People’s Award. Each child receiving the medal has shown outstanding courage, kindness, creativity, and resilience in the face of challenges unique to military life – from coping with long parental deployments to navigating new schools and communities time and time again.
This awards evening is more than a celebration — it’s a movement. It’s about giving visibility to the invisible work military families do every day. It’s about saying thank you. And it’s about showing families, whether near or far, that they are seen, heard, and deeply valued.
To read the CFF press release in full, please click this link: CFF Awards 2025 — Celebrating Forces Families
There is also an auction taking place; prizes and bidding information is at: https://www.jumblebee.co.uk/celebratingforcesfamiliesawards2025
If you can’t attend the awards in person, you can watch on livestream from anywhere in the world. Please sign up or view at: Livestream — Celebrating Forces Families
MOD: Victim Witness Care Unit
The Defence Victim Witness Care Unit (VWCU) provides support and guidance for victims and witnesses during their journey through the Service Justice System.
Visit the website for more information: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/victim-witness-care-unit-vwcu
NHS England: Armed Forces health stakeholder brief - Spring 2025
Please click the image to enlarge.
NHS England’s Spring 2025 Armed Forces health stakeholder brief provides updates on the following topics:
- Op RESTORE, the NHS England-commissioned physical health and wellbeing service for veterans
- Op NOVA, the NHS England commissioned support service for veterans in the justice system
- The NHS Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) Veteran Aware Annual Conference
- Step into Health - assisting with the transition from military service to careers within the NHS
- NHS SARCS: Care and support available to sexual assault and abuse survivors
- Latest primary care network veteran friendly accreditations
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
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)
Friday, 11 April 2025
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
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.
BFBS Update - April 2025
Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest Vacancy in Scotland - available exclusively to Service Leavers, Veterans and Military Spouses/Partners
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.
Wednesday, 9 April 2025
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
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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.
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
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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
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.
Friday, 4 April 2025
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/
🌍 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
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.
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
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
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
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
- 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
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