Are you being posted overseas? Our Overseas and iHIVE Blogs hold information on your new location

 

You will find information, including comprehensive Location Guides – plus our local office’s contact details – on our Overseas Blogs at:

• Belgium (SHAPE)
• Brunei
• Brunssum
• Cyprus
• Gibraltar
• Naples
• Sennelager

For those posted elsewhere, anywhere in the rest of the World, our tri-Service iHIVE covers the area.

The iHIVE Blog hosts around 100 Overseas Location Guides that can be viewed or downloaded from our iHIVE Blog: https://internationalhive.blogspot.com/ with more being added routinely. These can also be accessed (by MODnetusers) through the Army HIVE SharePoint site Overseas Postings area.

Most importantly, our iHIVE is also available to answer any enquiries about any overseas location worldwide, whether you are in the Royal Navy/RM, RAF, Army or civilian Service communities - please get in touch with any questions you may have.

iHIVE is listed in the Overseas Supportability Checklist as an action for any Service person/family assigned overseas, in order to check that local services, amenities and facilities meet each individual and family’s needs.

Our poster has iHIVE’s contact details, or get in touch by email: RC-Pers-HIVE-iHIVE-0Mailbox (MULTIUSER) RC-Pers-HIVE-iHIVE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

SafeLives: Service community domestic abuse - Welfare staff interviews request

SafeLives are also keen to speak with Army Welfare Officers and Unit Welfare Officers who have experience of supporting victim/survivors of domestic abuse. They want to understand your experiences of providing welfare support, and hear your views on the barriers victim/survivors from military families and relationships may face when trying to access help.

If you are interested in taking part in an interview, please scan the QR code on the poster to find out more.

Alternatively click on this link: Army Personnel ABF

 

SafeLives: Service community domestic abuse victims/survivors interviews request

Survivor Interviews

SafeLives, with support from the Army Benevolent Fund, is looking to improve the domestic abuse response for victim/survivors from serving and veteran families.

SafeLives want to hear directly from victim/survivors who have lived experience of domestic abuse in military families or relationships. Their voices are central to this work.

Victim/survivors who take part will also receive a £25 voucher as a thank you for their time.

If you are interested in taking part in an interview, please scan the QR code on the poster to find out more.

Alternatively click on this link: Survivor ABF

FREE Museums Sunday this week

It’s that time of the month again when Museums across Belgium open their doors to the public for FREE.

Make the most of this opportunity to take in some history, culture, art or general quirkiness of this fantastic country.

Forces Employment Charity: Job Vacancy in Southern England

 

Become a Champion for Service Children

Forces Employment Charity are looking for a passionate and motivated Youth Employment Advisor to join their team!

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people from Armed Forces families? 

In this rewarding role, you’ll:

• Provide 1:1 & group support to young people navigating their #career and #education choices
• Work with schools, colleges, and organisations to inspire the next generation
• Help break down barriers and open doors to brighter futures
• Raise aspirations & build confidence

They are looking for someone compassionate, proactive, and ready to empower service children with the guidance they need to thrive.
 
Experience in Youth Work or a Post-16 education setting would be ideal.

Location: Remote but frequent travel across Wiltshire, Hampshire & Surrey is required, so living within either county is preferable. The role requires you to attend schools at various times during the school day, so you must have your own car to get to and from events. https://forcesemployment.peoplehr.net/Pages/JobBoard/Opening.aspx?v=9dabea51-3e5e-4e16-80d7-ea3a30aba98c

Full-time

Apply now or share with someone who'd be perfect: https://forcesemployment.peoplehr.net/Pages/JobBoard/Opening.aspx?v=9dabea51-3e5e-4e16-80d7-ea3a30aba98c

 

 

Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF): Carers and Careers Survey

Are you juggling life in the Armed Forces while caring for someone with additional needs or a disability? Whether you're serving yourself or you're the partner of someone who is, if you're a carer, the Forces Additional Needs & Disability Forum (FANDF) wants to hear from you!

FANDF is collecting lived experiences through a short survey, and the results will be shared directly with the MOD and policymakers at our next committee meeting.

Complete the survey now—it only takes a few minutes but could help shape the future: https://forms.office.com/e/zT65EDwM9

Gov.UK: Emergency Alerts Sunday 7th September at 3pm

 

The UK government is testing the Emergency Alerts system on Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.
 
Your mobile phone or tablet will vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent. The alert message will confirm this is a test and that you do not need to take any further action.
 
Regular testing ensures the system is functioning correctly, should it need to be used in a life-threatening emergency. Find out more at gov.uk/alerts.
 
You can opt out of the Emergency Alerts, including the national test, but you should keep them switched on for your own safety.
 
Emergency Alerts will warn you via your mobile or tablet if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby. Only the government and the emergency services are able to send them.
 
There are simple and effective steps we can all take to be more prepared for an emergency. Visitgov.uk/prepare for advice on how you can prepare.

 

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Family Focus Programme reopens for applications

When a serving person becomes wounded, injured, or sick, life can change quickly for those around them. Family members might take on the role of primary carer, carrying a heavy emotional and practical load during recovery.

Ongoing support is essential. Its helps carers recognise their own needs and ensure the wellbeing of everyone involved.

In 2024/25, The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) awarded more than £1.3 million to 16 projects under the Family Focus programme to improve the lives of family members of Wounded, Injured or Sick personnel and veterans.

Focus on family members

Today, the Trust are opening this programme and inviting applications for projects that will achieve one or more of the following outcomes:

• Family members of those who are wounded, injured or sick feel better informed and more able to access relevant information, advice and guidance, applicable to their situation.
• Family members of those who are wounded, injured or sick feel less lonely/isolated, more resilient and better equipped to deal with their circumstances.
• Family members of those who are wounded, injured and sick have developed their skills for work, or have greater confidence to pursue volunteering or employment when it's right for them.

Grants of between £50,000 and £100,000 are available for projects lasting 12-18 months, which focus on addressing the needs of family members currently experiencing significant impact to their lives.

The Trust are looking for projects that recognise that each family has a unique set of circumstances. You’ll take a person-centred approach with tailored support and information, and there will be tangible outcomes for those you are working with.

What’s new for 2025/26?

The programme will focus on interventions that explore and pilot innovative solutions, as well as projects that refine and implement learning from successful recent pilots.

The Trust also welcome initiatives that embed good practice or build upon and expand services developed and tested within the past five years. These projects should sit outside an organisations core or routine work, offering opportunities to innovate and grow based on proven foundations.

Applications will be accepted from:

• Registered charities
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Local authorities
• NHS organisations 

Full eligibility is available on the Trust website Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

Find out more Full details of this funding opportunity are available on the Trust’s dedicated Family Focus programme page.

Application deadline is 12pm Wednesday 24 September 2025.

Give Us Time: Welfare Summer Update

 

Please see this following link for more information: www.giveustime.org.uk

Alternatively follow on social media at https://www.facebook.com/GiveUsTime and https://www.instagram.com/give_us_time/

ACORN programme run by Mankind for male survivors of domestic abuse who are looking to move on to new relationships

This course has less than six months left to run, so please take full advantage of this opportunity.

For further information, please visit: https://mankind.org.uk/for-professionals/pattern-changing-course-male-survivors/

All things Cat….

How about a Feel Good Post to start off the Week?

Read more here

SHAPE Language Centre Intensive Summer Sessions

If you are wanting to kick-start your French Language learning or maybe maybe refresh your old school French lessons prior to starting a course next semester, then this is just for you:

This intensive course runs for 3 hours per day over a fortnight and is brilliant way to wake up your mind to language.

Registration opens on 1st August 2025, pop into the SHAPE Language Centre for more information or email: languagecentre@shapemwb.be

SHAPE: Cinema at the SHAPE International Library, Tuesday 5th August 15:00

It’s the final Family Movie at SHAPE International Library next week!

No registration required, just turn up.
All movies will be G or PG Rated. 

Contact the Library direct for Movie Titles.

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment - Child Maintenance Service Enforcement Case Manager, Plymouth

 

The Department of Work and Pensions has 12 new Child Maintenance Service Enforcement Case Manager Executive Officer opportunities in Plymouth. These are now open for applications until 4 Aug 2025.
 
Civil Service Jobs link: Child Maintenance Service - Enforcement Case Manager - Plymouth (Ref: 735) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK
 
More information on DWP, the roles available and the application process can be found on the DWP EO Microsite.

Forces Employment Charity: Empowering You employment workshop - 15th to 17th September 2025

 

Empowering You is a hybrid three-day employability and confidence-building workshop in collaboration with Barclays and Forces Employment Charity
 
Event Overview
Days 1 and 3 are virtual. On day 2, delegates will be hosted at three Barclays locations (simultaneously). Day 3 you will meet employers online from across industries who value the skills and qualities that people from the Armed Forces Community bring.
Join us in person at one of the illustrious Barclays locations in London, Knutsford or Glasgow.
The event is for military spouses and partners (all genders), ex-military women and reservists.
 
What can you expect:
Receive a free one-to-one mentoring session with a corporate mentor

1. Hear directly from employers about pathways for the Armed Forces community and regional job opportunities
2. Understand the value that your transferrable skills can bring to employers and gain confidence in yourself
3. Expert sessions delivered by our Families Employment Advisors who are all military spouses or partners with lived experience and who have served too.

 

Dates and times:
This event takes place on the 15^th - 17^th September 2025.
Virtual event timings (days 1 and 3): 10:00 – 13.00 (duration may vary due to group sizes)
In-person event timings (day 2): 10.00 – 16.00
 
Locations on day 2:
Barclays Radbroke Campus – Knutsford WA16 9EU
Barclays Glasgow Campus – 30 Clyde Place, Glasgow, Glasgow G5 8AQ
Barclays Headquarters – 1 Churchill Pl, London E14 5RB
 
Registration Link and Further Info:
Registration Form
Event Overview

Recruit for Spouses: What’s on this Summer?

RFS are offering a number of events programmes and services over the coming months.

All services are free to access for military spouses, partners, veterans, and serving personnel.

Events include:

• Wellbeing Programme: We are currently accepting registrations for our six-week virtual programme, supported by a psychoeducational therapist. The sessions are designed to reduce isolation and help participants forge meaningful connections.
• Coaching & Mentoring Programme: We have spaces available in our coaching and mentoring initiative. With a pool of over 80 volunteers from various sectors – including BAE, Virgin, and AMS – we’re ready to match individuals with mentors who can support professional development or help build confidence. Our Coaching and Mentoring Manager, Helen Callis, is available to guide participants every step of the way.

For more information on Recruit for Spouses, please visit: https://www.recruitforspouses.co.uk/

To register and sign up, please go to: RFS Portal

SHAPE: Battle of Britain 85th Anniversary Commemorative Dinner

Come and celebrate the 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain at the SHAPE Club, hosted by the UK Combined Mess.

WHEN: Friday 26th September 2025 at 18:30

WHAT: Formal Attire for a distinguished dinner, enlightening speeches, and a period of reflection upon the enduring legacy of the Battle of Britain.

WHO: Open to Everyone 

HOW: Strictly by Sign-Up only. Book your place(s) here: Battle of Britain Commemorative Dinner

Don’t miss out!

Little Troopers: All together Build-A-Bear workshops on 13th August 2025

All Together this Summer!

Little Troopers has once again partnered with Build-A-Bear Workshop to bring a very special experience to military children across the UK this summer!

• Is your little trooper missing a deployed parent?

If your child has a parent currently deployed, you can apply to attend one of our exclusive group workshops happening nationwide. Each child will have the magical opportunity to create their very own ‘Little Troopers’ bear at Build-A-Bear — a treasured keepsake to hold close while their parent is away.

• A Nationwide Shared Moment

On the same day and at the same time, children in multiple Build-A-Bear locations will come together for this special summer event — a moment of connection and comfort for our military families.

• Event Details:

Date: 13th August 2025
Time: Approximately 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Age Group: Military children aged 4–10 years, each accompanied by one adult
Locations: Windsor, Exeter, Edinburgh, Bournemouth, Basingstoke, Southampton, Maidstone, and Newcastle Build-A-Bear Workshops

Apply via the form - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HPKJPVR

Forces Families Jobs: X-Forces Start-up Skills Workshop - online 30th & 31st August 2025

 

X-Forces two-day Business Start-Up Skills course expands on the content from the Self-Employment Discovery workshop.

This course provides members of the military community specific training to enable them to launch and sustain a business. The course is ideal for anyone interested in starting their own business or enterprise and is tailored towards your specific business idea.

Find out more & sign up at: https://bit.ly/3GLdjTn

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Covenant Fund programme, Hidden Voices, reopens for applications

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) has reopened the Hidden Voices programme for applications. This is the second year of this popular programme with funded projects last year supporting:
veterans in the justice system in

• LGBT+ veterans
• victim-survivors of Military Sexual Violence
• carers in armed forces communities
• foreign & commonwealth personnel
• And more…!

The Hidden Voices programme is about ensuring everyone in the armed forces community feels heard and supported – focusing on those who may not always get the support they need.

SHAPE Trips and Tours, Autumn Schedule

Chase away those post-holiday blues with some future planning! SHAPE Trips and Tours have an exciting schedule of day and overnight trips planned and are ready for the taking.

Hounds for Heroes: Supporting the Armed Forces with Life-Changing Assistance Dogs

Hounds for Heroes – Supporting the Armed Forces with Life-Changing Assistance Dogs

Every day, members of the UK Armed Forces and Emergency Services dedicate themselves to protecting others. At Hounds for Heroes, we believe that when illness or injury makes daily life more difficult for those who’ve served, they deserve steadfast support and a highly trained partner to help them on their journey.

We provide specially trained assistance dogs to those who have served in HM Armed Forces, no matter where, when, or for how long. Whether you served for days, weeks, months or years, you may be eligible. We also support those from the Emergency Services, including the Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard and RNLI.

Our dogs are far more than companions. They are working dogs trained to assist with everyday tasks like opening doors, retrieving dropped items and building confidence in public settings. Just as importantly, they offer loyal companionship and emotional reassurance.

Each dog is carefully matched to their Partner based on individual needs, ensuring a truly life-changing relationship that supports both practical challenges and emotional wellbeing.

Who We Help

We welcome applications from anyone who:

• Is a current or former member of HM Armed Forces or Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard or RNLI)
• Is living with a physical disability caused by illness or injury (this does not need to be directly related to your time in service)

We support a wide range of conditions that affect mobility and independence, including:

• Spinal injuries
• Limb loss or amputation
• Stroke recovery
• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
• Serious illness or injury with lasting physical impact

We understand that the road to recovery and independence can be tough and the last thing we want is for cost to be a barrier. Where needed, Hounds for Heroes can cover the full working life of an assistance dog, including training, equipment, insurance and ongoing support. Each situation is assessed individually and we aim to remove as many barriers as possible.

If you or someone you support could benefit from an assistance dog, we’d love to hear from you. Welfare officers, medical staff and support teams are encouraged to signpost eligible individuals our way. We're here to help. 

To learn more or to begin an application, visit: www.houndsforheroes.com or get in touch at: clientapplications@houndsforheroes.com.

Together, we can make a difference.

Free August Webinars from Serve and Protect Credit Union

This August, Serve and Protect Credit Union are delivering a range of free educational webinars on the following financial topics:

Thu 7th - Eco-Friendly Ways to Save Money
Thu 14th - Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money
Wed 20th - The Road to Financial Resilience: Preparing for the Unexpected
Thu 21st - Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score
Thu 28th - Before You Borrow: Key Things to Know

With actionable tips to prepare for financial emergencies, improve your credit score, and budget your money, don't miss out on these free webinars from Serve and Protect!

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

Brussels Pop-Up Bars

Sun + Friends + Pop-up Bars = the thing of dreams!

Check out the Pop-Up bars throughout Brussels this Summer and enjoy the warmer weather with a glass of something cool…. here.

NATO HQ Clubs for Kids and Adults

 

Did you know that there are numerous clubs and groups for adults and kids available at the NATO Staff Centre?

If you are new NATO HQ  and haven’t discovered them yet, have a look at what’s available NATO Staff Centre Clubs. New Members always welcome.

Kids clubs include Marlins Swim Team, Juventus Football Club and Aikido.

SHAPE Outdoor Recreation August Day Trips

Calling all water-sport lovers and adventurers; don’t miss these two day trips offered by the SHAPE Outdoor Recreation Team.

Last booking opportunity for SUP is 30th July and the last booking date for Kayaking is 3rd August.

Contact: outdoor.recreation@outlook.com for more information and booking.

 

SHAPE Travel Group’s Autumn Offering

 

If you are dreaming of your next holiday, mini break or day trip, feast your eyes on the SHAPE Travel Group’s Autumn Trips and get exploring.

Online Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Course (MBSR), starting 6th October 2025

Annmarie Mckenzie is a Welfare Officer is leading a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course later this year. Mindfulness has been proven to help reduce anxiety and stress whilst improving mental health and wellbeing.

Annmarie’s course is FREE and being held online over an 8 week period.

WHEN: Starts Monday 6th October 2025 at 7pm (Belgian Time)

WHERE: In the comfort of your own home, online.

MORE INFORMATION: Contact Annmarie, email in the poster

RAF Job Opportunities for Rejoiners and Inter-Service Transferees

 

RAF Recruitment | Rejoiners | Royal Air Force

Military Mortgage Advice - Housing Webinars, July to September 2025

 

Webinars | Military Mortgage Advice

Royal British Legion: First Friday of the Month Social 1st August 2025, 18:30 onwards

The August First Friday of the Month Social is being held at The Foyer, De Warandepoort, Markt 7b, 3080 Tervuren.  

This event is open to all member and friends; drop in for a drink or have a bite and stay for the evening. Le Foyer is a friendly brasserie, not far from the Market Square with plenty of parking, but only 10 minutes from the tram stop and Uber coverage.

For information of other upcoming events, please click here.

SHAPE: Quiet Book Club, Friday 1st August 2025

If you have a bookworm at home this Summer, the Quiet Book Club may be just what they’re looking for.

Open to all ages but to attend without a parent, young people must be aged 11+.

At the SHAPE International Library, No registration required, just pop along.

SHAPE Clubs and Activities

Are you a golfer? Looking for a group of like minded folks? SHAPE Golf Association are seeking members. Scan the QR Code for more information.

If you have recently arrived in SHAPE, there is a vast array of activities and groups you can get involved in; if you have a hobby there is probably a group for it on base. If not, you can always get one going! Have a look at https://shape2day.com/community/leisure/group-ii-activities to see what’s available at present. New members always welcome.

Kids groups include International Swim Team, International Scouts Pack, American Scout Group and SHAPE Cub Scout Pack.

Foire du Midi, Brussels, Saturday 19th July to Sunday 24th August 2025

The “Foire du Midi arrives on Saturday 19 July and is on until Sunday 24th August 2025.

You will find it along the “Boulevard du Midi” (between “Porte de Hal” & “Arts & Métiers”); complete with 130 attractions suitable for young and old, including carnival rides, games, merry-go-rounds and food stalls, there is sure to something for all the family.

The “Foire du Midi” is very well-known being the biggest fun fair of the country, attracting more than one million visitors every summer. This year marks its 145th edition and it is 1.6 km long.

It is open every day from 1400 to midnight (until 0100 over the weekend/during BEL National Holidays).

More information on the website https://www.foiredumidi.brussels/.

Battle of Britain Service, Sunday 14th September 2025, 10:00

 

Padre Craig is conducting the Battle of Britain Service on Sunday 14th September 2025 at 1000h in the SHAPE West Chapel.

The service will be followed by refreshments in the UK Mess.

Summer at Tour & Taxis, Brussels

There’s something for everyone, this Summer at Tour & Taxis:

Everything from cultural tours, fun and free activities for kids, giant games, immersive experiences like Bubble Planet, World Of Mind, and BattleKart, captivating exhibitions : Amazonia, and many more!

In August, Bouncy Games returns, the bouncy castle paradise!

Enjoy chill-out zones, a wide variety of food options, and a truly unique urban vibe. No reservation needed. Free Activities (accessible at all times) include ping pong tables, bocce ball courts, educational cycling track, playground. Sports equipment available for free (steps, stilts, hula hoops, etc.), educational cycling circuit, chalk drawing zone, & more.

SHAPE parkrun turns 2! Saturday 2nd August 2025

Come and Celebrate SHAPE parkrun’s 2nd birthday on Saturday 2nd August!

Did you know SHAPE’s parkrun is the only parkrun in Belgium? Definitely one to tick off the parkrun tourist chart for sure!

Whether you are a parkrun veteran, virgin or somewhere in between, everyone is welcome. Come along and walk, jog or run the 5k course or volunteer to support the event instead.

Cake and Bacon Rolls will follow the event, in the Britbar.

WHERE: Rue Vauban, behind the Continental Mess

WHEN: 2nd Birthday Celebrations on Saturday 2nd August 2025, 08:45 for 09:00 start

HOWEVER: parkrun is on every Saturday, same time, same place.

HOW MUCH: Free, Nothing, Niente, Nada, Gratuit!

Adults, children, dogs and pushchairs all welcome!

SHAPE: Baby Swimming Lessons now available at Fleraqua

Big news at Fleraqua: Baby swimming classes have finally arrived!

You asked, they delivered!

For over 8 years, Fleraqua has been helping children from age 3 learn to swim with passion and care. Now, it’s time for the little ones (starting at 11 months old) to begin their first aquatic adventure with us! 

What to expect:
🔹 Fun sessions in small groups
🔹 One parent in the water with each baby
🔹 Professional and attentive guidance
🔹 The perfect setting to develop motor skills, water confidence, and strengthen the parent-child bond

💦 Water becomes a playground for trust, growth, and connection.

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!

Specific time slots have been created especially for English-speaking families too, so no need to worry about language — Fleraqua have got you covered!

Book your session now: www.fleraqua.be

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to safely introduce your child to the joy of water.

WHERE: Fleraqua – 20, rue Marie Joyle, Havré (Mons)

QUESTIONS?: Contact Fleraqua on +32 499 17 81 38 or via their Facebook page.

Wherever your assignment order is taking you, HIVE is here to provide the local information!

 

If your posting is in the UK you can find our blog and location guides here. Please use our MS Forms enquiry function for any additional locations or if you have any enquiries.

Are you assigned overseas? If you’re posted to an overseas location where we have a HIVE, you will find information – plus our local office’s contact details – at:

• Belgium (SHAPE)
• Brunei
• Brunssum
• Cyprus
• Gibraltar
• Naples
• Sennelager

Posted elsewhere overseas? Don’t worry if your new location is not listed above, the iHIVE covers the rest of the world, with over 100 location guides available plus online enquiry support.

Our iHIVE is tri-Service and is listed on the Overseas Supportability checklist as an action, so that Service personnel and families can obtain the relevant information they may each require, to ensure that their new location can meet each individual’s and family’s needs.

For those with MODnet access, Army HIVE’s SharePoint sitecan also be used to download our information sheets or ask questions – please go to our Overseas Postings area

If you’re relocating back to the UK from overseas, or moving within the UK, our SharePoint hosts guidance and resources in our Relocating within or back to the UK section.

The Ripple Pond Summer 2025 Newsletter: Family Support together

 

Link to read online: Summer 2025 Newsletter