https://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/Whether it is BFPO service updates or official statements keep up to date on key information and news from across the Royal Navy and other supporting services. en-USTelligent Community 12https://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/navigating-periods-of-separation-new-resource-for-royal-navy-familiesThu, 10 Sep 2026 11:20:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:8bc5856b-03d2-4b3b-b1bf-4b96f3c8fc89RN Forum ModeratorSeparation can be one of the most challenging aspects of naval life. That's why we've launched Navigating Periods of Separation, a new collection of resources to help families through deployments, crew rotations and weekending. The resources explore the Emotional Cycle of Deployment, highlighting how separation can affect partners, relationships and children of different ages. You'll also find practical advice, coping strategies and information about where to access further support. We've also created a dedicated guide for schools and education professionals, offering practical guidance on supporting service children and their families throughout periods of separation. Available to view or download using the links below NFF - Navigating Periods of Separation: A guide for Naval Families NFF - Navigating Periods of Separation: How Education Professionals Can Help The resources are also available through their WEBSITEhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/give-us-time---september-2026-specialWed, 09 Sep 2026 12:15:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:73ef5a73-f3e8-4129-a804-16e5a7d29f42RN Forum ModeratorPlease find attached information on our last few breaks and days out for September 2026 - linked below September-special.pdf All these breaks can be found on their Website As always: - Breaks are booked on a first come first served basis - Families must be signed up to the website to make a bookinghttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/beyond-the-wire-s-bereavement-hub-is-liveTue, 08 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:69c324b6-ac4f-4142-891e-82a5b82ff399RN Forum ModeratorLaunching the UK's first Tri-Service Military Bereavement Hub. Built with Andrew Simpson Foundation, and shaped by more than 3,000 bereaved military families who told us the same thing: "I didn't know where to start." The Hub brings information, guidance and support into one place – not to replace the exceptional work already happening across the Armed Forces charity sector, but to help people find it faster, at the moment they need it most. Whoever you've lost – a partner, parent, child, sibling, friend or comrade – we hope the Hub helps you feel a little less alone. Thank you to everyone who has already helped us to evolve and improve this resource – this is just the beginning. Visit the Bereavement Hub - HERE Beyond the Wire Homepagehttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/m/resources/4996Fri, 04 Sep 2026 14:51:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:e7c523df-f53a-47f5-9e51-58561b3f3460RN Forum Moderatorhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/the-latest-illegal-money-lending-team-newsletter---summer-2026Fri, 04 Sep 2026 14:49:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:4bd8c2ff-e77d-4e18-b58f-6f4bf32b4bd8RN Forum ModeratorPlease find a link to the latest Illegal Money Lending Team newsletter. In addition to our usual updates, this edition includes information about this year’s Proceeds of Crime Funding (POCA) which is now open. The direct link to access more info and the application form is: https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk/poca-funding/ If you are considering applying for funding, please let me know and we can arrange a meeting to discuss further. CLICK HERE TO READ THE NEWSLETTERhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/portsmouth-area-community-centre-manager-leisure-amenities-fund-assistant---hmnb-portsmouthFri, 04 Sep 2026 11:58:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:5dba29a9-13ea-4540-a385-d6fd3db7b166RN Forum ModeratorJob Summary Primary Purpose. To provide oversight and management of the CC within the PPA. The CC aim is to provide a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment that supports social, cultural, recreational, and educational activities for Service Personnel and their families. The facilities offer a range of rooms and hall spaces available for hire to meet diverse community needs and play a key role in enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life of armed forces families through accessible programmes, services and community engagement. Secondary Purpose. To provide support to the Leisure and Amenities Fund (LAF) Manager, so that the best possible services and amenities may be provided to HMNB(P) personnel. Working Hours. This position is advertised at a core 37 hours per week. Routines to be agreed by line manager and reviewed at regular intervals. Contract Type . Permanent APPLY HEREhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/ssce-cymru-monthly-school-bulletin---september-2026Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:23:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:0b785827-3f6c-4c3b-97c3-54a43b91e4ebRN Forum ModeratorThe SSCE Cymru monthly school bulletin for September is available here . This month’s bulletin includes: A message from the SSCE Cymru team September’s SSCE Cymru Seren of the Month Armed Forces Friendly Schools Cymru NEW SSCE Cymru journal entries Service children data collection 2026/27 Upcoming events Funding Supporting Service Children in Education Wales Fund (SSCE-WF) 2026/27 Service Pupil Support Programme (application deadline: 30 th September) Funding support – guidance documents and drop-in sessions. Social media links. Back Editions available HEREhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/uk-nursery-authority-ukna-registration-and-claims-information-now-availableFri, 04 Sep 2026 09:31:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:4f0974d8-627e-4222-8f10-5bb86f0c2e25RN Forum ModeratorWhat is UKNA? UKNA is a new Defence childcare scheme that supports eligible working Service families who live in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It reimburses the difference in early years childcare costs, matching the “free” (Government funded) childcare hours they would be entitled to if assigned to England. Note: UKNA does not provide childcare spaces, it is a reimbursement of costs incurred when eligible working families pay for early years childcare. What’s new? Registration and claims information has now been added to the DIN. For full policy information, including eligibility criteria and how to register and claim, search ‘UK Nursery Authority’ at DINs Search (defnet) or Group: Defence Instruction Notices - DINs | Defence Connect. Q&A session with the Families Policy Team Service personnel and their families are invited to attend a Q&A session with the UKNA policy team on Wednesday 30 September at 10.30am. This session offers the opportunity to ask questions directly. If you would like to attend, please complete the UK Nursery Authority families Q&A form . The team will then send you an email invite. Related Article Defnet: 'UK Nursery Authority' childcare support: How to register and claim Defence Connect: 'UK Nursery Authority' childcare support: How t... | Defence Connect Further information Discover My Benefits - Childcare and early years Childcare for Service children - GOV.UK Contact: people-affs-child-expenses@mod.gov.ukhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/royal-navy-60-second-update---episode-232Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:23:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:97709311-6859-451b-a59d-6a11dcaf4977RN Forum ModeratorYour latest headlines from across the Royal Navy. Brought to you by the sailors of HMS Duncan during their visit to Copenhagen. This and previous updates can be viewed via the Royal Navy Website: 60 Second Update.https://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/forces-children-scotland---this-resource-is-available-for-all-to-useTue, 01 Sep 2026 14:12:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:5ba20786-a232-4916-91a9-a62134300d78RN Forum Moderatorhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/rn-forum-lowdown---august-2026Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:06:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:e43c2137-97ff-47a2-ae8f-fe15a2ae8ad5RN Forum ModeratorTake a look at the latest RN Forum Lowdown which consists of links to the majority of posts that have been published over the previoust month, plus highlights of what Member groups have been updated too. It includes forum facts and updates to assist you in navigating and using the RN Forum. To read the latest Lowdown and access previous issues follow the link: RN Forum Lowdownhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/national-grief-awareness-day-2026Sun, 30 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:4d885c95-698a-4ae7-8821-20fa6dc09c47RN Forum ModeratorToday is National Grief Awareness Day where we all should think and recognise the time it takes to heal from loss. Grief doesn't have a prescribed course, and closure comes in many forms. When a loved one dies, the void they leave affects everyone differently. Today provides us all with time to reflect and reach out to others. Lt Matt Newman, who lost his wife just over a year ago, shares his thoughts with you. His thoughts can be read HERE Support organisations can be found here: RN Forum Bereavement Areahttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/m/resources/4992Sun, 30 Aug 2026 13:59:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:bbdb6566-0950-4fb5-977f-81476d7ec54bRN Forum Moderatorhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/give-us-time-welfare-update---september-2026Fri, 28 Aug 2026 17:05:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:88397d0b-4de5-4657-8b52-29556c101573RN Forum ModeratorKIDLANDLEE COTTAGES 7 - 11 September - Dipper Cottage - Sleeps 6 The cottages at Kidlandlee are a firm favourite with families already - each is unique, but all have the same cosy vibes for total relaxation! Set in the Coquet Valley in Northumberland, with walking routes from the front door, and pet friendly! DAYS OUT AND EXPERIENCES ACROSS THE UK: Family tickets available for RHS Wisley, Surrey, We the Curious, Bristol, Wakehurst, Sussex, and Monteviot House, Lothian. BRAIDHAUGH HOLIDAY PARK CENTRAL SCOTLAND 14 - 18 Sept - Sleeps 6 (no pets) Braidhaugh Holiday Park is a peaceful riverside retreat located on the banks of the River Earn in Crieff, Perthshire. The park is ideal for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short walk from the historic market town of Crieff, it provides easy access to scenic walks, local attractions, and the stunning landscapes of Highland Perthshire. DEVON SEPTEMBER WEEKEND CAMPING BREAKS AVAILABILITY Set within 500 acres of beautiful North Devon countryside, Stowford Farm Meadows is a family-friendly destination offering the perfect base to relax, recharge, and spend quality time together. Located along its own private drive and just a mile from the nearest main road, it provides a peaceful setting while remaining close to some of North Devon’s most popular attractions. All these are available on the Website (Account registration Required), with the exception of the Kidlandlee break, which is booked on email: enquiries@giveustime.org.ukhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/families-first-newsletter---issue-41Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:c8f17970-fd90-4d85-84dc-694ae2be41eaRN Forum ModeratorThe latest issue of the Families First Newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available on the Defence Homes website . This issue includes: Service Family Customer Representatives Check Your Boilers Fire Safety Advice Housing Matters Podcasts Useful Linkshttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/china-fleet-club---september-2026-newsletterFri, 28 Aug 2026 10:58:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:e040dede-7f9f-464c-b342-31851a315ff3RN Forum ModeratorThis month's China Fleet Club Newsletter contains all the latest news, upcoming events and discounts for Royal Navy beneficiaries. Read the Newsletter via the link: China Fleet Club - September 2026 Newsletterhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/tri-service-contact-house-directory-where-to-find-it-online-or-how-to-request-a-copyFri, 28 Aug 2026 08:00:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:5cc13503-6f16-49cb-9be3-1fa444423d16RN Forum ModeratorContact Houses, also known as Welfare Houses or Short-Term Families Accommodation, are military accommodation available predominantly for short-term welfare-related bookings, but can sometimes be used by those visiting for leisure reasons. These houses are usually managed by unit staff, where there will be localised policies on priorities for bookings, booking procedures, costs and how to pay. To find out what is on offer: Go to the Army HIVE webpage at https://www.army.mod.uk/hives and there is a button to download the Directory at the bottom of the page Contact your nearest HIVE or RN Family & People Support to request a copy by email. Army HIVEs are listed on https://www.army.mod.uk/hives , RAF HIVEs can be found on the RAF HIVE Finder at https://www.raf.mod.uk/community-support/serving-families/hive-finder/ and RN Family & People Support local office contact details are at: https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/families-and-veterans/local-support-offices Contact Army HIVE HQ to request a copy by email via mailto:RC-Pers-HIVEComms-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk Contact us via Direct Message on any of our social media channels – please include an email address so the Directory can be sent as an attachment Use the Contact Us button on any of the three Army HIVE blogs, where you can submit a request via MS Forms Go to Army HIVE SharePoint (MODnet access will be needed) to download a copyhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/dio-stakeholder-briefing---27-august-2026Thu, 27 Aug 2026 15:59:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:c467892b-fed4-46c6-b2f7-4d50d689ed4fRN Forum ModeratorBe the voice of Service Families in your area DIO is launching Regional Experience Committees (RECs) across the UK, bringing together Service family volunteers who are passionate about improving housing services and ensuring family voices are heard. This is an exciting opportunity to become a Service Family Customer Representative for your region to help influence positive change in military housing. By joining, you will play an important role in highlighting local issues, identifying opportunities for improvement and sharing what matters most to Service families. As a member of your REC, you will work alongside other representatives and key figures within DIO to provide constructive feedback, discuss common themes and challenges, and represent the lived experiences of families in your area. To read more about the role and how to apply, click HERE Amendments to Surplus Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Policy What is changing? From 1 September 2026, the policy for applying for and allocating surplus Service Family Accommodation (SFA) is changing. The changes are designed to make sure surplus homes are managed fairly while work continues to transform and expand the estate as part of the Defence Housing Strategy. How surplus SFA is prioritised When surplus homes are available, applications will be considered in a new priority order. This means some family circumstances will be prioritised first. The updated prioritisation list will be reflected in JSP 464 from 1st September 2026. How to apply for surplus SFA From 1 September 2026, if you wish to request surplus SFA, you need to apply every time you receive a new assignment order dated on or after that date. Mid-assignment applications will only be considered in exceptional circumstances. If this applies, please submit a case through your single-Service personnel branch. If you receive another assignment order in future, you will need to apply again, even if you are staying at the same duty station. If you are currently live in surplus SFA, receive a new assignment order, and wish to retain your SFA, you must also submit a new application alongside a retention form available here. Existing applications for Surplus SFA We are reviewing the surplus waiting list using the new priority order. Applications will stay active on the waitlist if they meet the new criteria and you have more than six months remaining at the duty station requested. The Accommodation Support Cell will contact you directly if: · you applied for SFA using a previous assignment and at a different location from your current duty station. · you have less than six months remaining in your current role and location. · according to your Future Availability Date (FAD) on JPA. · you have submitted more than one e1132 application at the same time. · you have already been housed in SFA. For queries related to the Surplus SFA policy changes, please contact the Accommodation Support Cell at People-Accom-ASC@mod.gov.uk or call 0800 368 7406. Housing Matters Podcast You can now watch the latest episodes of Housing Matters , the podcast exploring Military Housing and the issues that matter most to Service Personnel and their Families. Episode 3 focuses on damp and mould, one of the most significant challenges facing Military Housing. Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and Sebastian O'Hara, DIO Operations Manager South, are joined by Nikki Simmons from VIVO and Matt Smith from Amey. They discuss what causes damp and mould, the work of the Damp and Mould Taskforce, and the steps being taken to improve how these issues are identified, managed and resolved. Episode 4 looks beyond the home itself to explore the wider community and support networks that help make life on a patch work. The discussion covers the role of NHS services, welfare charities, and the social value initiatives delivered by DIO and its suppliers, showcasing how organisations work together to support Service personnel and their families. Episode 3 and Episode 4 are available now, alongside the first two episodes in the series. Whether you are interested in housing maintenance, community support or the future of military housing, Housing Matters offers insight into the issues that affect Service Families every day. Families First Newsletter The latest issue of the Families First Newsletter, featuring the latest Defence Housing News and Updates, is now available on the Defence Homes Websitehttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/naval-children-s-charity---august-2026-newsletterThu, 27 Aug 2026 13:35:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:a0bbf00e-4573-4108-9e34-8cd8974f8c88RN Forum ModeratorNaval Children's Charity latest newsletter is out now: We hope you have enjoyed the long, hot summer. We have been busy attending various events this season including Homecomings, Families Days and the first ever Officer Initial Naval Training Ceremony at HMS Raleigh. It has been wonderful meeting some of our Naval families. There are still those that have not heard of the Naval Children’s Charity which is why it is so important to spread the word about what we can offer and do to support our Naval children! Read the August 2026 Newsletter HEREhttps://forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/news/b/announcements/posts/go-learn---naval-children-s-charityTue, 25 Aug 2026 14:03:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:5ca1320f-d9d1-40a7-9edb-eea7cf53e201RN Forum ModeratorGo Learn provides high-quality, non means tested, one-to-one online tutoring to secondary school students at key educational stages: GCSEs, A Levels, Scottish Nationals/Highers/Advanced Highers, age 14 + also to students with additional needs, age 11+. Go Learn is available free of charge to serving RN, RM and RFA Families. Go Learn offers: • Up to 16 hours of one to one tutoring per academic year per child • Free online tuition, not means-tested • Sessions tailored to GCSE/A Level, Nationals/Highers/Advanced Highers or additional learning needs • Support in core subjects: English, Maths and Science • Aimed at secondary school students age 14+, and age 11+ for those with additional needs • Flexible scheduling, including after school, in school, weekends and holidays • UK wide access, including families posted overseas but following UK curricula Eligibility Criteria: • The pilot is aimed specifically at the SERVING Royal Navy community – Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Fleet Auxiliary Serving Personnel • All ranks • Non-Means tested to benefit all secondary school children, age 14 for subject study and age 11+ for additional needs Booking is via the NCC : Go Learn: Free One‑to‑One Online Tutoring for Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary Families – Naval Children's Charity or Email: golearn@navalchildrenscharity.org.uk Naval Children’s Charity Website