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.

Canal du Centre Special Offer on Electric Boat Hire, until the end of July

 

Have you visited the Canal du Centre yet? This historic canal has overcome major obstacles over the centuries thanks to creative engineers. Witness some unique hydraulic structures that have played a massive part in the economic and industrial success of the country. 

Between now and the end of July, you can pilot your own (5 seater) electric boat along the oldest stretch of the canal for only 25 Euros, instead of 45 Euros! 

If this is one of the many places to visit on your ‘To Visit’ list, don’t miss this fabulous offer!

More Information: https://canalducentre.be/

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: Library After Hours, Friday 25th July 2025, 18:00-19:30

Library After Hours is on this Friday!

For Family Fun or Activities for Teens & Adults, come along to SHAPE International Library.

No need to register, just turn-up.

To attend without a parent, young people must be aged 11+ 

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.

The Ghent Festival, Friday 18th to Sunday 27th July 2025

From 18th to 27th July 2025, the beautiful city of Ghent transforms into one big open-air celebration. 

For ten days straight, the streets, squares, and parks are filled with music, street performances, comedy, culture, and a uniquely welcoming atmosphere. The Ghent Festivities (Gentse Feesten) are not your typical music festival – they’re a city-wide cultural experience, mostly free of charge and open to everyone.

Whether you enjoy live concerts, intimate acoustic sets, theatre, folk dancing, children’s activities, or just soaking up the vibrant nightlife on a buzzing city square – Ghent has something for you. Legendary locations like Saint Bavo’s Square, Baudelohof, and the Korenmarkt host a wide variety of musical styles and performances. During the day, the city caters to families and culture lovers alike, while in the evening, the party continues with dancing, street food, and live acts into the early hours.

What makes the Ghent Festivities so special is their open, inclusive nature. No tickets, no barriers – just show up and dive into the energy of a city in full celebration. Come by train or tram, stroll through the historic centre, sip a local beer, and let Ghent surprise you. Whether you're planning a night out or a weekend getaway, this is a summer experience you won’t forget.

Just a 1 hour and 20-minute drive from Mons, and with everything within easy walking distance once you’re in the city.

https://visit.gent.be/en/calendar/ghent-festivities

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/.

Belgian National Day at the Musee de la Libèration, Obourg Sunday 20th and Monday 21st July 2025

If you are looking for something local to SHAPE to do this Bank Holiday Monday, the Musée de la Libération” in Obourg (rue Saint-Macaire 1) will open its doors on Sunday 20 July and Monday 21 July, from 1000h to 2000h.

If you haven’t visited the museum yet but are passionate about military history, this museum is an absolute must! It may look pretty small from the outside, but like a tardis, it is huge on this inside and has a lot of treasures inside that you won’t want to miss. 

Guided tours (in French but also in English) will be organised this weekend, as well as other fun activities (see poster attached).

Food truck on site.

Typical “Belgian National Day” atmosphere!

For more information, visit the website: https://museedelaliberation.com/ 

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.

Belgian National Day, in Jurbise, Monday 21st July 2025

Belgian National Day, Monday 21st July 2025:

A family-friendly, festive and sporting day: green and secure setting, rich program of activities for all ages, sports activities, live performances by popular artists, warm atmosphere, food & drinks... 

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.: 5, 10, 15, or 20 km walk (free, open start after registration under the marquee) 10 a.m.: Bars and food trucks opening (cost on consumptions), fairground rides and games, bouncy castles (free) 

At 10 a.m.: 20 km guided bike ride (free without registration, starts in front of the municipal park entrance) 

From 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: Zumba class (free) 

From 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.: Chess games (free, in partnership with the Hainaut Chess Club) 

At 2 p.m.: Giant bocce balls tournament (pairs formed into 4 rounds, registration from 1 p.m.) 

3 p.m. to 7:00 PM: Mascot Parade (free) 

5:45 PM to 7:00 PM: Breakdancing demonstration 

7:15 PM to 11:45 PM: Singing performance and concert 

At midnight: Fireworks on the theme "Belgian stars on the international stage" 

12:20 AM to 2:00 AM: DJ set

Belgian National Day in Brussels, Monday 21st July 2025

Belgian National Day in Brussels, Monday 21st July 2025:

10:00 a.m. - The Te Deum mass will be celebrated in the presence of the King and Queen and high-ranking officials in the Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula in Brussels.

10:00 a.m. - Party in the Park - Parc de Bruxelles/Rue de la Régence and surrounding areas - The party will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., between the Palais de Justice and the Palais de la Nation (Federal Parliament). Hundreds of activities for everyone.

The Federal Parliament will open its doors from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Visitors can wander through the corridors and rooms of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

4 p.m. - Military and Civil Parade - The traditional military and civil parade will take place on the Place des Palais starting at 4 p.m.

9:00 PM - "Belgian Party" Concert in Cinquantenaire Park: a free show organized by the Chancellery of the Prime Minister will close the festivities in Cinquantenaire Park in Brussels. Numerous Belgian artists are expected starting for a concert on two different stages.

10:30 PM - Multimedia Laser and Drone Show Including Fireworks - Cinquantenaire Park.

A multimedia laser and drone show with stunning DJ set will close the evening. This show will include the traditional fireworks.

The concert, as well as the laser and drone show including fireworks, will be broadcast on the RTBF, VRT, and BRF Belgian television channels, as well as on TV5 Monde and on Vivacité radio.

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

Assigned Overseas? Have your say on Service Family life

If you and your partner are assigned overseas, Defence wants to hear from you on what Service family life is like. Share anonymous feedback in the Overseas Families Survey.

Tell Defence what information and support has helped you and your family while serving overseas, and what could be better. Here are some areas you’ll be asked about in the survey: 

• spousal / partner employment

• education and childcare

• communications

• safeguarding

 
Your feedback will help to inform Defence’s policies and initiatives to better meet the needs of you and your family.

How to complete the survey
You can complete the survey online. You and your partner can share your views individually using same survey link.  The survey is open to all Regular and Reserve Service personnel and their spouses / civil partners. Please be assured that survey responses are anonymous.

You have until Saturday 30 August to make your voice heard.

Help us to help you
The more people that complete the survey, the better able Defence is to make informed choices on how to improve various aspects of Service life for you and your family.

The previous Overseas Families Survey contributed to the launch of Defence’s new Families Hub – this is a one-stop-shop digital platform, which signposts to a wealth of information, support and organisations, to help navigate Service family life. Topics include childcare, partner employment, housing, welfare and much more. – this is a one-stop-shop digital platform, which signposts to a wealth of information, support and organisations, to help navigate Service family life. Topics include childcare, partner employment, housing, welfare and much more.

If you have questions about the survey, please contact the MOD Armed Forces Families and Safeguarding team: people-AFFS-data-research@mod.gov.uk. 

To view previous survey results, visit GOV.UK.

Useful information and resources
To find out about the range of allowances, opportunities, and benefits for you and your family, visit the Discover My Benefits site.

For useful signposting to information, guidance and support to help navigate Service family life, visit the Families Hub.

To explore Defence’s plan to drive forward positive initiatives for Service families, read the Armed Forces Families Strategy 2022-2032.

For information and support on a wider variety of topics affecting your Service and personal life, including relocation and local area information, contact the relevant HIVE:

• Royal Navy Family and People Support

• Army HIVE

• Royal Air Force HIVE

 

RAF Commemoration Service at the National Basilica, Brussels

 

On 15 July, six Royal Air Force personnel from SHAPE attended a solemn commemoration service held in the Air Force Chapel within the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Brussels. The service, led by Padre Craig, honoured the lives, memory, and dedicated service of members of the Royal Air Force and the Air Forces of the Commonwealth.  The Air Force Chapel, one of several chapels surrounding the main abbey of the Basilica, contains specially commissioned stained glass Memorial Windows, a Roll of Honour listing the names of Belgian airmen who lost their lives, and squadron plaques representing 35 RAF Squadrons, many of which included Belgian personnel during the Second World War.
 
In addition to the SHAPE contingent, members of the RAF Association Belgian Branch and Group Captain John Dickson, Defence Attaché to Belgium and Luxembourg, together with his wife, were also in attendance. Following the service, attendees took time to appreciate the grandeur of the Basilica, the fifth largest church in the world, which features a prominent stained glass window dedicated to the Comet Line, an underground network that played a vital and dangerous role in aiding Allied Airmen to escape during World War II.
 
The event concluded with a reception at the residence of the British Ambassador to Belgium, where guests were served traditional Fish and Chips and light refreshments. Organised by the RAF Association Liaison Officer at SHAPE, Flight Sergeant Richie Atha, the event achieved its three main objectives: to introduce RAF personnel in Belgium to the magnificent Air Force Chapel and its surroundings; to commemorate and remember the sacrifices of those who served before us; and to foster camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose among our RAF colleagues in Belgium.
 

The picture shows attendees within the Air Force Chapel at the conclusion of the commemoration service.  

The Honorable Artillery Company Band visit Belgium

 

The Honorable Artillery Company Band will be playing at several venues around Belgium this Summer.

On Wednesday 30th July, see them playing at Sanctuary Wood Cemetery, Ypres for the commemoration of Lt GWL Talbot.

On Friday 1st August they will be marching from the Market Square in Poperinge to Talbot House.

On Saturday 2nd August the will be performing at an afternoon concert at St George’s Chapel, Ypres between 1500h and 1600h followed by the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate at 1900h.

Discounts Galore for Military and Civil Service Personnel

Did you know about all these Discount Opportunities for Military and Civilian Staff?

Blue Light Card:
If you want to make savings on everyday items, holidays, leisure, eating out, why not
sign up to the Blue Light Card which only costs £5 for two years membership? Civil
Servants are also eligible to join.

Current offers include 25% off food in Pizza Hut, Cafe Rouge, Bella Italia, 20% off food
in Las Iguanas, Prezzo, TGI Fridays, zizzi and 5% off at Nandos to name but a few.

Discounts are also available in certain retailers, holiday companies and utility
companies.

Defence Discount Service:
The Defence Discount Service Card is available to Armed Forces and Civil Servants
which offers similar savings to the Blue Light Card above and costs £4.99 for five years.

Did you know that you can visit Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle for free with
your Defence Discount Card! The offer allows the card holder plus 4 guests to visit
once a year which is a saving of £30 per person per visit!

'Discover My Benefit's portal'
The Discover My Benefits (mod.gov.uk) portal is an easy-to-use tool for those
working in Defence, their families and anyone interested in joining. You can use it to
find out what support and benefits are available to you as a service person or civil
servant.

For Civil Servants:
Offers range from lifestyle schemes that can help to improve your physical and mental
wellbeing and include savings on Private health insurance and savings on gym
membership:

https://discovermybenefits.mod.gov.uk/civilian/mental_wellbeing

https://discovermybenefits.mod.gov.uk/civilian/health_fitness

Financial discounts are also available via 'Top Up' cards for retailers such as Tesco and
preferential prices for MOD staff at certain retailers through Edenred. To find out more
and register on the Edenred (UK Group) Limited website.

For Military Personnel:
Service benefits including adventurous training, accommodation, honours and awards
and others. Check out your ‘Discover My Benefits’ page.

For other ways to save money, please visit: Financial wellbeing (sharepoint.com)

Kids “Fresher’s Fayre” for Mons, Sunday 24th August 2025, 10:00-18:30

SAVE THE DATE!

 

On Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., the City of Mons will be hosting a free daytime event for children and young people in the Jemappes municipal park.

 

Similar to a Fresher’s Fayre, 80 "extracurricular" booths will be there to present their activities for children and young people. Here is the Flyer for this event.

 

In addition, a variety of activities, introductions, and demonstrations will be offered by extracurricular organizations: dance (classical, modern jazz, hip hop, breakdance, contemporary, capoeira, etc.), martial arts (Taichi Qigong, Soo Bahk Do, Tae Kwon Do, Taijiquan, self-defense, judo), yoga, racquet sports, mini tennis lessons, rhythmic gymnastics lessons, music workshops, theatre workshops, pony rides, diving, mountain biking courses with obstacles, and for younger children, musical and dance introductions.

 

There will also be a climbing wall, trampolines, bouncy castles and Restaurants available on site.

 

If you are looking for local clubs for your children to join, you won’t want to miss this!

 

FREE admission.

For more information, click here.

Defence update: Wraparound Childcare funding updates for autumn term 2025

Are you eligible to join the 9,000 Service families claiming up to £3,400, per child, per year, for their before and after school childcare costs?

What is Wraparound Childcare (WAC)?
The WAC scheme provides funding for up to 20 hours per week, per child, during term time, to eligible Service families with children aged 4 to 11 years old (4-16 years old if in receipt of disability allowances), who are in full-time education in school or being home educated. WAC funding is available to eligible working Service families in the UK, assigned overseas within the European Economic Area & Switzerland (EEA&S), assigned overseas and using Defence Children Services (DCS) before and after school childcare provision or assigned overseas unaccompanied with family remaining in an eligible location.

Explore Flanders; full of many jewels of the Belgian Crown

If you are looking for somewhere to explore in Belgium, how about the Flanders region?

With art and architecture, World War 1 sites and history, sports and outdoor activities, amusements parks and nature parks a plenty, there is something for everyone in the family.

Find out more here.

Your Market Guide Throughout Belgium

Do you love a wander around a Market to while away the hours?

There are regular Markets throughout the country offering fresh, food, fruit, vegetables, clothing, vintage treasures, local crafts, plants and flowers.

Request your copy of the HIVE’s Guide to Markets throughout Belgium; either pop into the Office or drop me an email on RC-Pers-HIVE-SHAPE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Top 10 Kids Farms to visit whilst here in Belgium

Love a Farm? You will be spoilt for choice with this lovely range.

Here’s 10 Farms offering hands-on experiences to enrich your visit, that’s one for each Province! If these ten aren’t enough, there is a link within the article to 66 Farms in Belgium that kids will love!

Visit Louvain-la-Plage this Summer, until 31st July 2025

Get into the Holiday mood with Louvain-la-Neuve’s answer to a stay-at-home summer break: Louvain-la-Plage! 

The university town has been converted into a summer holiday destination extraordinaire which is perfect for lazy summer days and entertainment. Offering concerts on Thursday and Saturday evenings.

You can also also feel the sand between your toes along the sandy stretch with its palm trees, parasols, deckchairs, beach games, a bouncy castle and plenty of other outdoor activities for all ages.

Louvain-la-Plage is operating until 31st July 2025.
Open daily 10.00-midnight with the beach games ending at 20.00 each evening.

WHERE: Grand Place, Louvain-la-Neuve

Find out more here.

BRUSSELS: Leuven’s Big Holiday, Friday 11th July to Friday 8th August 2025

Get into the spirit of Summer at the Het Groot Verlof (the big Holiday) Festival. 

The FREE Summer Festival offers numerous events including:

• Picnic in the Park on 20th July 
• Open-air cinema 
• A packed programme of concerts, including Red Sebastian and Daan. 

In the middle of the Festival you can also catch the four day M-idzomer music and culture festival from 31st July to 3rd August.

Catch these events across Leuven.

For more information, click here.

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 11 July 2025

Planning for move-ins/outs and removals this summer

Summer is the busiest time of the year for housing allocations and removal activity. Our suppliers will always strive to meet your preferred dates, however because of the volume of requests, on occasions this is not always possible.

To help manage this busy time and ensure you have a smooth experience, we recommend families consider our advice and guidance when planning for move-ins/outs and removals: 

• Book your pre-move-out appointment with your Housing Officer as soon as you apply for your next SFA (at least 30 working days ahead of your scheduled move-out date). We have extended the time to complete a pre-move-out appointment from 14 to 30 working days, allowing more time for you to receive advice on moving-out and guidance to prepare your house in meeting the move-out standard. 
• If circumstances allow, please only request services during the last week of July and first week of August if you are unable to move at any other time. These are particularly popular dates and tend to be fully booked in advance. 
• We understand how important it is to receive your next allocation and status of your application as soon as possible. Pinnacle have 15 working days to process your request, we kindly ask you do not chase for an update before this timeframe. 
• You can start planning your removal as soon as Assignment Orders are received via the Agility Portal. To start the process, you only need the location and not a confirmed delivery address. 
• Once you have been allocated SFA, it is advised to confirm availability for removals before booking a move-in/out appointment. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Agility directly (remember to include your service number). For further guidance, please visit the Pinnacle website.


Identifying your local named Housing Officer

To help you easily find out who your local point of contact is and ensure you can speak to your Housing Officer over the phone when you most need advice or help about your SFA – a full list of Pinnacle’s Housing Officers (including a name and direct telephone number) has been made available on the Pinnacle website, or you can call the National Service Centre on 0800 031 8628 (option 4).

You can find FAQs on the Defence Homes website, if you would like to find out more about the role of a Housing Officer, when you might contact them and additional ways of getting in touch.

This is in support of the SFA Consumer Charter commitment to provide families with better and clearer communication, including a named Housing Officer for every service family who can be contacted about housing related queries. Progress is underway for the remaining commitments which are due to be in place by December 2025.


JLL stock condition surveys return

From 21 July – 1 September 2025, DIO have commissioned Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) to continue the Stock Condition Survey on 1,000 UK SFA homes across 20 sites. The homes selected will be of different types, age and condition.

If your SFA is selected, you will receive a notification letter from JLL at least 2 weeks before the intended date of the inspection, requesting your availability to allow the surveyor access to your property. The surveys will take a maximum of 1 hour.

Where possible, we greatly appreciate your cooperation if you can provide access to your property, as this will allow the surveyor to successfully carry out the survey and inform a detailed assessment of the condition of SFA homes.

Please note your home will not be selected if you have already taken part in a previous survey (from January 2025).

Defence Update - Simplifying Overseas Services Finances

 

Simplifying overseas service finances…

Defence’s new digital tools and updated allowances help you and your family navigate the financial aspects of overseas assignments – with greater confidence and less paperwork.

When serving overseas, you should be able to focus on your work and settling into your new location, without worrying about unexpected costs or navigating complex policies.

Financial stability and a clear understanding of what you and your family can receive are essential components to support operational effectiveness. That’s why Defence is freeing up valuable time and providing welcome reassurance, by simplifying allowance processes and providing tools that reduce admin.

These changes make the move to overseas life smoother for everyone, providing greater clarity and choice – whether you’re posted abroad or keeping a home across borders.

Places where kids eat free (or for £1) - Summer Holidays 2025

If you are heading back to the U.K. for a visit this Summer, check out these brilliant deals.

For further information please go to: https://moneysavingcentral.co.uk/kids-eat-free and check any T&Cs that apply to the offer(s) you may be interested in.

Brussels Monthly Vintage Market, Sunday 3rd August 2025

Brussels Monthly Vintage Market is back in August!

Come along and browse the Vintage clothing, items and decor.

Local Creators Stalls, Music along with Food and Drink, also available.

WHEN: Sunday 3rd August 2025

WHERE: Reset 8, rue de Ligne, Brussels

VIP Entry 10:00-18:00

FREE Entry 11:00-18:00

SHAPE: Summer Cinema at the SHAPE International Library, Tuesday 22nd July 2025, 15:00

Don’t miss the 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.

Give Us Time: Orlando holiday opportunity - Autumn 2025

Give Us Time have a new opportunity for a two week break in Orlando in the autumn, which is live on their website at https://bookings.giveustime.org.uk/login

This is for up to four people in a town house on the Encantada Resort in Kissimmee, to the southwest of Orlando. The resort is close to Disney World and Sea World, and an hour’s drive to both of Florida’s beautiful coastlines.

The dates for this break are Saturday 20 September to Saturday 4 October – they are unable to request alternative dates, although families can choose to arrive a day later or leave a day earlier, depending on flights.

July Quest Magazine is Out Now

To read this issue online, or any previous issues, please go to: Quest Magazine | Quest Online

NAAFI Fund Dives Deep to Support Injured Veterans and Service Personnel

 

The underwater world just got a whole lot more accessible and therapeutic, thanks to a generous £5,000 award from the NAAFI Fund to the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (RCDM)! This fantastic funding is already making waves, allowing RCDM to replace and procure essential sub-aqua diving equipment. This means their vital Diving courses can continue to benefit not only Tri-Service personnel but also provide ongoing assistance to incredible Diving with the Injured expeditions.

The recent trip to the Maldives was an undeniable success: injured veterans, finding much-needed therapy in the serene embrace of the ocean, experiencing the wonders of marine life. This unique form of rehabilitation offers a sense of weightlessness, freedom, and an incredible connection to nature that can be profoundly healing.