NHS Scotland Armed Forces Talent Programme

The Armed Forces Talent Programme (AFTP) is a national programme commissioned by the Office of the Chief Executive of NHS Scotland to support the entry of the Armed Forces Community (in its widest possible definition) to enter the health and social care workforce.

We work across all 22 health boards in Scotland and aim to increase the awareness of the employment opportunities within NHS Scotland and the pathways into them. Also to support our recruiting managers to better understand the knowledge, skills and experience the Armed Forces Community can bring to our workforce.​

If you have never thought of roles within NHS Scotland, why not join our Monthly Online Webinar; an informative overview to answer the “what” questions – Pay, locations, roles, training required, routes in etc.

​The next webinar is on Tuesday 4th June​​ at ​​14.30 you can ​register for this or other webinar's by scanning the QR code or here.

For more information visit the AFTP Webpage ​​

Veterans' Capital Housing Fund - Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust are inviting applications for the Refurbishment Grants programme – could you be one of our next funded projects?

Part of the Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund, this programme awards grants of up to £75K towards projects that assist in the refurbishment or extension of accommodation for Veterans with a housing need.

Full details are available here https://covenantfund.org.uk/.../refurbishment-grants.../

BFBS Radio Needs You!

Help BFBS radio to make a list of the best forces anthems; submitting a suggestion gets you in the draw for £150 of online shopping vouchers!

Voting closes on Sunday 19th May.
For more information and how to vote, visit:
https://www.bfbs.com/your-forces-anthems

Easy Resettlement Magazine - Spring Issue

Have you read the Spring issue of Easy Resettlement yet? Easy Resettlement is a quarterly magazine that assists Service leavers with their resettlement process. 

We work with numerous employers (many of whom have pledged their support through the Armed Forces Covenant) as well as training providers, armed forces charities and organisations such as the CTP and ELCAS about your entitlements, all of which will assist you in moving through your resettlement process. 

You can read the Spring issue as well as back issues and to make sure you never miss a copy you can subscribe for free.

Fair Culinair, Puth, 2nd June

From 12.00 - 18.00 on 2nd June, there will be a food fair in Puth between Mauritsstraat and Einderstraat. The event, which is organised by volunteers from the village, will include up to 30 vendors with food stalls/trucks, music and some entertainment for children.

International GT Open, Belgium, 25th/26th May

The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps car racing track, approximately an hour and 15 minutes from Brunssum, close to the Fagnes is host to the International GT Open on the weekend of 25/26th May.

Entrance is free, parking €12 per day for cars.

For more information click here

Easy Resettlement Magazine - Spring issue

Have you read the Spring issue of Easy Resettlement yet? Easy Resettlement is a quarterly magazine that assists Service leavers with their resettlement process. 

We work with numerous employers (many of whom have pledged their support through the Armed Forces Covenant) as well as training providers, armed forces charities and organisations such as the CTP and ELCAS about your entitlements, all of which will assist you in moving through your resettlement process. 

You can read the Spring issue as well as back issues and to make sure you never miss a copy you can subscribe for free.

Magazine | Easy Resettlement Magazine

Cadets: Sign Up for Defence Discount Service Savings!

Are you a cadet over the age of 16? Sign up to Defence Discount Service and start saving!

Tell your friends too!
Just follow these simple steps on our website or app to sign up:
. Click register on our home page
. Select 'Cadet Forces'
. Fill in your details, including the name of your cadet unit
. Hit register
Sign up and save today!

https://www.defencediscountservice.co.uk/

Tell us how Wraparound Childcare has impacted your family

 

How has Wraparound Childcare (WAC) impacted your family? If you are claiming, or have previously claimed WAC since it launched in September 2022, we want to hear from you.

Defence is evaluating the impact of the WAC scheme on serving families, since the scheme was launched.

Your responses will help inform future policy, tell us what impact it has had on your lives as Serving families and be used to determine the effectiveness of the scheme.

Who can complete the survey?
Any Serving families that are claiming, or have claimed WAC, since it was launched.

Serving personnel or their partners can respond using a token/access code, which is the Service number of the Serving person. This is for security and to control access.

All responses will remain anonymous, and responses will not be linked to Service numbers in any way.

If you would be interested in taking part in focus groups to delve deeper into the effectiveness of the scheme, please indicate this at the end of the survey or email the Analytical Evaluation team.

Complete the survey now

Job Vacancy - DIO Helpdesk Administrator

 

DEPENDANT STAFF NOTICE VACANCY: HELPDESK ADMINISTRATOR – JOB-SHARE

DIO are looking to recruit a part-time Helpdesk Administrator for the DIO Offices in JFC Brunssum.

For the full job advert please click here

Outdoor Swimming in Gangelt

Family friendly outdoor swimming pool in Gangelt is now open - daily (seasonal) from early morning until evening. There is a paddling pool for little ones and a giant slide for older children.

For more information and online booking, click here

Childcare Applications for parents with 9-month-olds now open

 Childcare support is expanding in the UK. For more information, click here.

Summer Reading at JFCBS Library

 

Job Vacancy - BFPO Logistics Clerk

VACANCY: BFPO LOGISTICS CLERK – 2 POSITIONS

Both British Forces Post Office (BFPO) Logistics Clerk positions within the UK National Support Element (UKNSE) Brunssum will become vacant this summer. The positions are part-time Category S3 of 20 hours per week and the starting rate of pay is € 891.73 gross per month, going up to a maximum of € 1044.27 in 7 annual increments.

It should be noted that due to the nature of these roles, the successful applicants will need to undergo a Category 2 Security Check and that UK security requirements preclude the employment of non-UK nationals in these positions.

The BFPO Logistics Clerks are responsible to the Head of Location for the efficient running of the BFPO and for ensuring that logistical requirements are met.

UK Health Security Agency advice - be tick aware

Ticks can be active all year round, but they are most active in the months April to July, and sometimes later in the autumn.

Don't let ticks stop you from enjoying the outdoors but reduce the chance of acquiring a tick bite by:

1. Using a repellent that prevents ticks
2. Wearing long sleeves and long trousers to reduce direct skin exposure
3. Keep to clearly defined paths and avoid brushing against vegetation
4. Regularly check for ticks and brush off any you find immediately
5. When you’re back indoors, check for any ticks on you, your children and pets
6. If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible with a removal device

Find out more, including what to do if you're bitten

For information about Lyme Disease from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment in the Netherlands, click here

Civvy Street - May 2024 Edition

The latest edition of Civvy Street is available here​

Breakfast Baps at the Brit Cafe, 31st May

 Click on the image to enlarge.

Civil Service Jobs - HR Case Manager

HR Case Manager, based nationally (UK). Closing date 21st May.
The vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans initiative.

For job description, benefits and how to apply, please click here

Overseas Survey - Thank You

An update on the Ministry of Defence's (MOD) overseas families survey, which took place last summer.Thank you to the overseas personnel and families that took the time to complete the 
MOD's overseas families survey, which ran from July to August 2023.

Your feedback is helping to shape Defence policy and processes to better meet the needs of you and your family.An MOD report is due to be published this year outlining key survey findings and will be publicly available on Gov.uk. Further details will be shared in due course.

To find out more about Defence's 10-year plan to drive forward positive initiatives for Service families, read the Armed Forces Families Strategy 2022-2032.

If you have any questions, please contact: People-AFFS-FamiliesTeam@mod.gov.uk.

The Ripple Pond Spring 2024 Newsletter

The Ripple Pond Spring Newsletter is now available; to read in full, click the link:
https://tinyurl.com/5n6m98u5

The Garfield Movie at Alliance Theatre

 

Playing on Saturday 25th May at 18.30 and Friday 31st May at 17.00.

Sign up to watch the movie here or scan the QR code

Training Opportunity - XForces

4th June & 18th June - 2-day virtual workshop

At a career pivot point? Our newest workshops, in partnership with London Stock Exchange, will guide you to pinpoint opportunities aligned with your skills and experience and understand real-world pathways in various sectors to navigate your next career move. Ideally suited to service leavers, veterans and military spouses.

For more information and to register your interest, please click here

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Two DVSA Vehicle Examiner (MOT) Roles Available in Multiple Locations

GFIE-308- Vehicle Examiner (MOT) - DVSA - Multiple locations
Closing Date 5 June 2024

This role at Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is 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 Military Spouse/Partner: Your current partner must still be serving OR was discharged within the last 12 months.

The qualifications required that the DVSA have stipulated are as follows:
You must have a vocational related qualification in Motor Vehicle Maintenance & Repair at level 3, or IMI ATA registration at diagnostic technician level, or IRTEC registration at advanced technician level, or Engtech registration.

Other Motor related qualifications may be acceptable:
Significant experience + VRQ/QCF
Apprenticeship + VRQ/QCF
NVQ Level 3 + VRQ
Significant Experience + NVQ Level 3

Further information can be found in the Job Description 
To apply, please submit a completed expression of interest form 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)

Tribute Bands at PLT Theatre

Friday 17th May: Totally Spice - A Spice Girls Tribute! - Theatre Kerkrade
Friday 31st May: The Billy Joel Experience - The Album Tour - Theatre Heerlen
Saturday 8th June: Michael Jackson Tribute - Theatre Heerlen

Tuesday 1st October: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac - Theatre Heerlen

FrontFoot Jobs: Join Taylor Wimpey's Fast Track Program to become an Assistant Site Manager

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join Taylor Wimpey's exclusive 12-month Fast Track Program and embark on a rewarding journey as an Assistant Site Manager.

No Experience Necessary!

Whether you're looking to kickstart your career or make a change, we provide the training and support you need to succeed.

What You'll Gain:

• Hands-on Training & Development
• Valuable Experience in Site Management
• Competitive Salary & Benefits
• Opportunity for Career Progression

Requirements:

• Passion for Construction and Site Management
• Strong Communication Skills
• Willingness to Learn and Adapt

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to grow with a leading company in the construction industry!
Apply Now and Secure Your Spot in Taylor Wimpey's Fast Track Program! Visit: https://www.frontfoot.jobs/job/tephzh/assistant-site-manager-fast-track-nationwide/high-wycombe-head-office/- 

Or contact the FrontFoot team on 0330 111 4282 or via email: info@frontfoot.jobs
This offer is exclusively open to members of the armed forces community and is also listed on the Career Transition Partnership website.

Victory Services Club: April Newsletter

 

To read the April newsletter for Victory Service Club, click here

BFBS: May Update

In this update, BFBS have chosen their top picks from their Forces News channels, and you can read about the latest BFBS Radio documentary NATO 75, and news of their recent collaboration with BT.  Highlighted also is BFBS Academy’s latest social media course, plus some successes and nominations, and sports livestreams.  

To view the update in full, please go to: BFBS Update May 2024 | About BFBS

Serve and Protect Credit Union launch latest Fixed Saver, offering a guaranteed return of 4.25% AER

Are you looking to earn a guaranteed return on your savings? Serve and Protect Credit Union have launched their latest fixed-rate savings account.

​Serve and Protect Credit Union (formerly Police Credit Union) are a not-for-profit organisation designed to help people in the police, prison, military, fire, and health services save money for their financial future.
Their Fixed Saver account allows you to deposit from £1,000 up to £10,000, with a guaranteed return of 4.25% AER over a term of 12 months.
Your savings with Serve and Protect Credit Union are also protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, covering you up to £85,000.*

By opening a Fixed Saver, you not only earn a competitive return on your savings, but you also play a vital role in providing affordable loans to those who serve and protect the nation.

Don't miss out on this exclusive offer!

It's available on a first-come-first-served basis, so act fast. The product is available throughout May 2024 and just requires you to complete a simple application online.

Please Note: If you are not already a member of Serve and Protect, you can still apply, but you will have to do so by the 29th of May 2024.

To apply or learn more about the Fixed Saver, visit: https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/save/fixed-saver/

Guide for Bringing Your Dog to the Netherlands

For information about bringing your dog to the Netherlands, including how to go about obtaining a Pet Passport and details of vets, boarding kennels and walking routes, read the Pet Guide
 

Fighting With Pride Guide to Help & Support 2024

Three of the pillars of action for Fighting With Pride (FWP) are Direct Support, Community Building and Capacity Building. In partnership with The Veteran UK we have produced a resource to showcase our community, highlight the direct support we are gaining from partner organisations, government and service chiefs and list the many organisations joining our Pride in Veterans Standard (PiVS), expanding our capacity to reach LGBT+ veterans, serving members, reservists, adult cadet force members and their families.

This is our inaugural digital version, focusing on the community and listing the rapidly growing number of organisations joining PiVS and offering services and support to you. It shows organisations, local and national, that offer support from housing to employment, education to therapy, social networks to physical and mental health services and so many others, and who, as members of PiVS, have shown a commitment to the particular help and support needed for LGBT+ veterans and families.

https://www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/fwp-directory/​

Quest Magazine May Edition

Please click here to read this edition online

Family Action - IT Support Analyst Job Opportunity

Family Action have a new role just in, which may be of interest to Service leavers or military partners.

UK Remote (Midlands Area) Job Opportunity with a national charity – IT Support Analyst – Full Time, Permanent, Remote with Midlands travel​.

Family Action say: "Our Family Action IT team is like a stealthy group of wizards who work in the background, ensuring all cogs turn so others can work their magic and help families and vulnerable people unhindered! If you're technically minded (ITIL), looking for a rewarding role at an established charity, click here to read more & apply!"

Catterick Garrison Employment and Support fair - Wednesday 15th May

 

Serve & Protect Credit Union - May Online Webinars and Smile & Save Podcast

 Free financial webinars this May from Serve and Protect - don't miss out!

🛒 Managing the Cost of Living
👤 Domestic Violence - The Financial Impact
✍️ Budgeting & Spending
🚀 Boost Your Credit Score
🔍 What Lenders Look For

🔗 Register: https://sandpcu.co.uk/webinars

Episode 2 of the Smile and Save Podcast is here, brought to you by Serve and Protect. Discover the importance of financial resilience in this short episode 🎧

🔗 Listen here: https://sandpcu.co.uk/m/smileandsavepod

Service Family Accommodation: UK-wide Townhall Events

For more information about upcoming UK events and locations, click the link:
https://dio.eventcube.io/​

DIO Families First newsletter - issue 16

To view the latest DIO Families First newsletter and find previous issues, click the link:
Service Family Accommodation - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) find previous issues.​

CEP Families - eRedbook Feedback, 8th May

Do you use the eRedbook or want to know more about it? Join SSAFA Community Health on 8th May for a chat and share feedback. To join the teams meeting please click on the link:
https://tinyurl.com/85uxp6xd

Single Living Accommodation (SLA) survey.

The Single Living Accomodation (SLA) survey launches today and is an opportunity for all personnel to share your views on SLA and help shape the future of Defence accommodation.

Who can take part and how?

We want to hear from all Service personnel whether you currently use SLA or not. To complete the survey click here. For more information please go to this Sway: Sway

What’s the ask?

You will be asked to complete a short survey which will take approximately 10 minutes.

The survey will close at 17:00 Monday 3 June 2024.

Read more »

'Anxiety Unravelled' - a free course for military parents from Bounce Forward.

                                                                               

This programme is funded through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for military parents and carers.

Anxiety Unravelled will support you to understand you are not on your own - if you are in the midst of a growing cycle of worry and concern you would like to be able to unravel, this programme is for you!

We look forward to seeing you across three 1-hour sessions -

June 5th - Session 1: What is anxiety?
June 12th - Session 2: How we talk about anxiety
June 19th - Session 3: Helping my child deal with anxiety

Register for your FREE place HERE

Celebrating Forces Families Awards shine a light on inspirational Military families.

                                                          

London, UK –  The Celebrating Forces Families Awards, held on Friday, 26th April, at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, recognised the incredible strength, dedication, and achievements of the UK’s Armed Forces families. 

This heartwarming event, now in its third year and the only one of its kind within the Armed Forces Network, celebrates the invaluable support these families provide to serving members and the entire military community.

Building Heroes: Supporting the Salute

Building Heroes is a leading military charity, joining forces with education, the Armed Forces and construction to shape and grow the industry with a pipeline of valuable, work ready personnel from the military community.

We will continue to offer our Multi Trades Qualifications at our London, Wales, Basingstoke, Colchester, Salisbury and Plymouth Academies.

​Additionally, we will be offering a brand-new qualifications Level 3 in Retrofit Assessor/Energy Domestic Assessor. These combined qualifications will run for 5 weeks. This level 3 qualification will ensure straight employment routes and we have plenty of opportunities available. (see attached flyers)

The location for Retrofit will be in Barnet but a couple of the cohorts may be in Enfield. This is all to be confirmed but for now encourage your service leavers to get onto the Waitlist so not to miss out!

For further information on how to collaborate with Building Heroes, please click on flyers here and here.

All applications to be made at www.buildingheroes.org.uk

Supply Teachers and Learning Support Assistants Required

Please click on the image to enlarge.
 

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest Civil Service Job Vacancies for Service Leavers, Veterans and Spouses/Partners

Valuation Office Agency (VOA) in Plymouth (x2 vacancies) or Durham (x1 vacancy) with a closing date of Friday 17th May​

Job description can be found HERE 
Closing Date 17 May 2024

This role at The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is 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 Military Spouse/Partner: Your current partner must still be serving OR was discharged within the last 12 months.​


To apply, please submit a completed Expression of Interest Form  and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

This GFiE role is specifically for Veterans/Service Leavers and Military Spouses/Partners. For more information 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)