Catterick: WAGS Choir Catterick Summer rehearsal dates

"Wait, you guys don't take the whole summer off?!" 

​Nope!

While everyone else is lying on a beach (or hiding from the kids), the Military
WAGS Choir Catterick is still making noise getting ready for our busy Autumn season.

​If your summer plans involve wanting to sing, escape the house, or meet a fabulously supportive bunch of people, come join us!

No auditions, no reading sheet music, and zero experience necessary...promise.

​Our Summer Rehearsal Dates:
​Thursday 30th July
​Thursday 20th August
​Thursday 3rd September
​Time: 6:00pm – 7:30pm

​Fancy a singalong?
​Drop us a message HERE or just turn up!

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Shropshire: Christopher Turley Armed Forces Hub Manager Vacancy - Closes 9 August

 

The Christopher Turley Armed Forces Hub is looking for an exceptional Hub Manager to lead the next phase of its development — shaping a high-quality, trauma-informed and accessible support offer for serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families.

This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role at the heart of a regional support network. You will lead the day-to-day operation, strategic development and performance of the Hub, ensuring it delivers meaningful, practical and person-centred support both on site and through outreach across Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire, South Staffordshire and Wolverhampton.

You will play a key role in embedding the Hub within the wider Ministry of Defence VALOUR system, ensuring compliance with VALOUR requirements whilst helping to shape the Hub’s long-term sustainability.

As the Hub programme develops, there is likely to be weekend and evening work requirements to meet demand and need.

You will bring substantial experience of managing community-based, multi-agency or support-focused services, alongside experience of partnership working, project delivery, budget management, volunteer management and reporting on performance and outcomes.

A thorough understanding of the challenges faced by the Armed Forces Community and in-depth knowledge of service charities and other organisations that can provide support. You will also need strong safeguarding knowledge.

Please note that the employer of this role will be the Christopher Turley Armed Forces Hub.

For an informal discussion about the role please email jon.power@telford.gov.uk

Please click on the links below to view the job description and person specification.

Posts working with children or vulnerable groups will be subject to an appropriate criminal records check. It is an offence to apply for a role that involves engaging in regulated activity with children and adults in vulnerable circumstances if you are barred from working with one or both of these groups.

A CV template is available if you do not already have a CV.

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Shropshire: Live Well Community Hubs - Donnington Community Hub

 

Elgin: CTP Employment Fair Thursday 6th August

click on image to enlarge

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Shropshire: Telford & Wrekin Armed Forces Community Outreach Events - August 2026

 

Information provided: Central HIVE Hub

Shropshire: Free Yoga Classes for Ex Armed Forces Community and immediate family members

 Full details can be found HERE

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Support resources, including during Block Leave: Stay Connected

The following guidance applies during both leave periods and working periods:

• Make time for people – Stay connected with family, friends and colleagues. Checking in on a friend, spending quality time with loved ones or reaching out to someone you have not spoken to for a while can make a real difference.

• Look out for yourself and others – Resilience is strengthened through connection, belonging and support. Encourage people to reach out when they need help and take the time to check in on those who may be spending leave alone.

Alongside the resources on the poster, for additional sources of support please also see the HIVE Health & Wellbeing information sheet, which can be downloaded HERE from a personal device.

Please contact HIVE if further information may assist.

Richmond: Fancy having a go at Rapping? 12th Aug

Fancy having a go at rapping? 

Join world champion rapper Rob Bradley for a fun, interactive workshop inspired by this year's Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat.

Watch Rob create incredible freestyle raps, then have a go at writing your own rhymes and finding your flow. No experience needed, and there's no pressure to perform!

Wednesday 12th August
Richmond Community Library
Suitable for children aged 7+

Free to attend, but booking is essential. Contact Richmond Library to book your place

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Northern Ireland: The Wessex Cinema showings for August 2026

Protecting Grey Matter - Mental Health support

Click to enlarge.

Protected Grey Matter Poster

For more information on any of the resources within this poster, please contact your nearest HIVE or use the 'contact Army HIVE' facility on the right hand side menu of this Blog.

Northern Ireland: Out of this world adventure - W5 Space Explorer Academy - open until 31 Aug 26

Blast off on an out-of-this-world adventure this summer at the W5 Space Explorer Academy.

Step into an immersive training mission where young astronauts can embark on a journey beyond the stars. Take on cosmic challenges, test your skills through hands-on missions, and discover what it takes to become a true explorer of the universe. From countdown to launch, to interstellar discoveries, every experience is designed to ignite curiosity and fuel imagination.

Perfect for families, this action-packed adventure brings the thrill of space exploration to life right here at W5. Suit up, and prepare for lift-off. This is one mission you won’t want to miss.

This experience will be running daily until 31 August.

W5 - Space activities will run at selected times from 10am-6pm. Check times on arrival to W5.

This experience is included with general admission summer saver tickets. Pre-booking your visit to W5 is essential.

*Please note that W5 is closed on Monday 13 July 2026.

For more information and to book your tickets CLICK HERE

Aldershot: Shots Foundation Veterans Lifestyle and Wellbeing Morning

 

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Richmond: WAGS Choir Coffee Morning 30th July

Looking for a proper Yorkshire welcome and a lovely summer catch up?

​Pop down to Richmond Town Hall this Thursday, 30th July

Between 9am and 12pm.

​For just £2 entry, you can enjoy:
​Delicious homemade cakes 
​A fantastic raffle with great prizes 
​A warm, friendly chat with local faces 
All while supporting the Military WAGS Choir 

​Everyone is welcome whether you are bringing the family, popping in after a morning walk, or just looking for a good cuppa and a slice of cake.

​Come say hello, We would love to see you there

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Ripon: Music Storytelling 5th Aug

One, two, three, four… Something’s going down on the cell block floor… The Victorian prisoners are stomping their feet, rattling their bars, and dancing along to the cell block boogie. But what happens when the warden catches wind of the beat? Will he shut down the jam or join in the dance?

Join Ripon Museums at the library for a Cell Block Boogie! 
Ripon Library
Wednesday 5th August
10.30am

The story will run for approximately 20 minutes, followed by 40 minutes of play with all the props. Make sure to book your place!

As we will be dancing, singing and playing instruments, this session will be loud! There will be ear defenders available to use, and you are welcome to bring your own

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Catterick: Bereavement Groups

A gentle, supportive space to sit with others who understand. Whether your loss is recent or many years past, you are welcome to come for conversation, quiet and a cup of tea or coffee. All welcome at our groups this week

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Lyneham: Little Lights group will return Fri 4 Sep

 

Please check out the following links for further information about this group:

• Facebook page
• Website

Information provided by Lyneham HIVE

South Cerney: AWS CS Summer activities - spaces still available!

 

Booking can be made via Eventbrite at AWS CS North Wiltshire & Gloucestershire - Summer activities

Please note other sessions in other locations are also still available!

Information provided by Lyneham HIVE

South Cerney: Community Centre opening times over the Summer holidays

 

Looking for something to keep the little ones entertained over the summer holidays?

South Cerney Station's Community Centre will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 1030-1530, free of charge.

Please note this is not a childcare facility and all children must be supervised by a parent or carer.

Please click here to follow the South Cerney Station Welfare Facebook page

Information provided by Lyneham HIVE

Gloucestershire: 'Ask Grace' - your WhatsApp assistant for unpaid carers

 

Please click here for further information

Information provided by Lyneham HIVE

Darlington: Players Wanted for Darlington Railway Athletic Women

 Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Richmond: FREE - Let's Play Rounders!

It's Wednesday rounders for the next 5 weeks at Richmondshire Rugby Club. 

Open to all over 18s and all equipment provided. Sociable, adaptable and most of all fun.

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Serve & Protect Credit Union: August Webinars

 

Serve & Protect Credit Union:  August Webinars

🌍 Green Living: Simple Eco-Friendly Tips to Lower Your Bills
Date: Thursday 6th August
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Tips for living a greener life to save money and protect the planet!

🐖 Saving Made Simple: Practical Tips to Boost Your Savings
Date: Wednesday 12th August
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Explore 10 practical savings methods that anyone can apply to build a healthy savings cushion

✍ Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money
Date: Thursday 13th August
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Create a budget that meets your short and long-term financial goals, plus tips to cut your spending

🦈 Responsible Lending: How We Can Stop Loan Sharks Together
Date: Monday 17th August
Time: 12:00-13:00
What to Expect: Discover the warning signs and impact of loan sharks with representatives from Stop Loan Sharks

🛡 Financial Resilience: Ready When it Matters
Date: Wednesday 19th August
Time: 12:00-13:00
What to Expect: Understand why financial resilience matters and hear some simple, practical tips to help you improve it

🚀 Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score
Date: Thursday 20th August
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Understand the importance of looking after your credit score, plus actionable tips to improve yours

💸 Borrow Smarter: Tips to Strengthen Your Loan Application
Date: Tuesday 25th August
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Understand what happens throughout the journey of a loan application, some of the key factors lenders evaluate, and what to do before you apply

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

Hexham: Blue Light Discount at Inspired Pots

Inspired Pots offers a weekday Blue Light discount in Hexham for Blue Light Card and Defence Discount Service members.

Eligible members can receive 10% off pottery for their whole table, Monday to Friday, during standard studio painting sessions.

Whether you are planning a relaxed catch-up with friends, spending time with family or simply looking for a quiet couple of hours painting, we would love to welcome you to our Hexham pottery studio.

Our Blue Light and Defence Discount10% off pottery for your whole table
Available Monday to Friday
Valid during standard studio painting sessions
Available to Blue Light Card and Defence Discount Service members
Simply show your valid membership when paying

The discount applies to everyone included in the cardholder’s standard table booking, rather than only the cardholder’s own pottery

For more information

Book a table

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Blandford: Animal farm & sanctuary open throughout the school summer holidays

 

More details HERE

Location - Higher Shaftesbury Road, Blandford Forum. No Onsite parking. Please park at the Sunrise Business Park DT11 8ST. 

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Blandford: Garrison housing drop in session - Wed 29th July

If you are experiencing any issues or have concerns with your service families accommodation and would like to speak to someone in person, you're welcome to drop in to the Pinnacle housing office on Mudros Road. (Blandford Camp), no appointment necessary.

Housing drop inn - 1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month. 0900 - 1200hrs.

You can also report an issue with your SFA by calling 0800 031 8628 or send an email to hello@pinnacleservicefamilies.co.uk 

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

 

Dorset: Bovington & Blandford HIVE offices closed - week commencing Mon 27th July

To access the online enquiry form click HERE

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Richmond: Royal Mail is recruiting in Richmond

 Postal workers required at Richmond Delivery Office

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Dorset: Veterans bikers ride out - Sat 22nd Aug. Invite to Serving personnel & their families.

Invite to all currently serving personnel and their families to the Veteran's Ride Out.

Meet 0830 at The Bikers Loft in Poole (BH16 5SW), ready to depart at 10:30hrs.

Scenic route onto Compton Abbas Airfield to coincide with their Summer Vintage Fly-In Weekend.

Final destination will be The Churchill Arms in Alderholt (SP6 3AA).

Check out the Facebook pages of Churchill Arms and The Bikers Loft Events page, where you can sign up.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Weeton: Pirate Treasure Hunt & Pram Walk with HomeStart - 28th July 26

 Information provided by Weeton HIVE

North Yorkshire: Free guided walks in the Yorkshire Dales - August and September

Free guided walks in the Yorkshire Dales - August and September, Reeth

Three dates available for this free National Lottery funded guided walk in the Yorkshire Dales, led by a qualified Nick Rowe Mountain Leader.

The route takes in the stunning escarpment north of Reeth with panoramic views over Arkengarthdale and Swaledale -- one of the finest viewpoints in the northern Dales. Moderate to hard grade with uneven terrain, gates, stiles, and a steep descent through an old lead mining area. You need to be a confident walker comfortable on hilly ground.

Monday 24th August - 8 spaces
Monday 7th September - 10 spaces
Wednesday 16th September - 10 spaces

All walks start at 10:00am from Dales Bike Centre, Reeth. Free parking on site. Bring boots, waterproofs, water, packed lunch, and a camera.
Completely free. Funded by the National Lottery. Book your place

guidedoutdooradventures.co.uk

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Career Transition Partnership: Employment Fair in Salford on 10 Sept

CTP Employment Fairs are open to:

Service leavers
Veterans
Reservists
Partners and spouses

Service leavers/veterans/Reservists: To find out more and to reserve a place, please visit: https://www.modctp.co.uk/home/list-events

Family members: Register via email to CTP.events@reed.com

Alternatively register via the Forces Employment Charity (FEC): Link and click 'REGISTER' from the menu.

Next upcoming dates are:

Bournemouth - 24 Sept
Belfast - 14 Oct
Cardiff - 5 Nov
Telford - 19 Nov

To view all 2026 CTP Employment Fair locations and dates, please go to: https://armyhiveinfo.blogspot.com/2026/01/career-transition-partnership-2026.html

North Yorkshire: Read to the Beat, Turn Rubbish into Rhythm in August

 
Turn Rubbish into Rhythm! 

Join North Yorkshire Council's Recycling Team to transform everyday recycled materials into fun musical instruments while discovering how recycling and creativity can go hand in hand.

11th August – Richmond Library
13th August – Colburn & Catterick Libraries

Perfect for children taking part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge, this hands-on activity celebrates the connection between stories, music and creativity.

Booking is required as spaces are limited. Please contact your chosen library to reserve your place. We can't wait to see what you create!

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Dorset: Swanage carnival - Sat 25th July - Sat 1st Aug.

 

Credit:loveitlocalevents. 

This year's theme is "A Wacky Western in Carnival Canyon".

The FREE 8-day event features over 100 activities, including the main street procession, aerial displays by Team Raven, live music, beach sports, and evening fireworks.

For more details and programme click HERE

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Bovington: Garrison summer family activity programme & trips starts Wed 29th July.

 

Click on poster above to enlarge

Sign up here: AWS Community Support (Blandford & Bovington)

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Blandford: Garrison family summer activity programme & residential break - Spaces still available.

With the kids breaking up next week, summer is almost here! There are still a couple of spaces left on the summer residential and a whole load of fun to be had for all the family during the school holidays.

Sign up here: AWS Community Support (Blandford & Bovington)

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Ripon: Join our New Men's Book Club with Ripon Library

We're excited to announce that in celebration of the National Year of Reading, we will be starting up a new men's book club this September!

Whether you're a lifelong bookworm of haven't picked up a novel in years, join this new book club and connect with other readers in a relaxed and friendly setting.

To express your interest in joining this group, please pop into the library or email us - ripon.library@northyorks.gov.uk

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

York: FREE Support and Educational courses for parents in the York area in Autumn

FREE support and educational courses for parents in the York area!

Please see the attached link for information on free support and educational courses and sessions for parents and carers by Family Matters York. 

Including: Time out for parents of children aged 0-5, time out for parents of children with autism, handling anger in the family, screen time in the digital world, and relationship support.

https://mailchi.mp/.../parenting-courses-april-may...

Click HERE for more info

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

30 Days out under £30 In Staffordshire

 

A guide to the best cheap and free days out in Staffordshire, including zoos, farms, museums, country parks and nature reserves, plus our stunning wide open spaces, such as the Peak District National Park, The National Forest, and Cannock Chase National Landscape.

You are guaranteed a fantastic day out at these attractions and places to visit in Staffordshire.

Everything featured on this page will cost a family of four less than £30 to get in – and some are even free*!

Full details can be found HERE

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Staffordshire: Summer at The Staffordshire Regiment Museum - 27 July - 01 September

 Website: www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com/

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Lichfield: DMS Whittington BFBS Cinema showings: 26 July to 4 August

 Information supplied by:Central HIVE Hub

Northern Ireland: Dive Into a Pirates & Mermaids Adventure at Mountpanther - 26th & 27th July

Join us on Sunday 26th & Monday 27th July to meet pirates and mermaids, enjoy magical entertainment, and create unforgettable family memories. Book your tickets below!

Get ready for a swashbuckling day of family fun at Mountpanther Farm Park! Your ticket includes:

•  Meet a real-life pirate AND mermaid and snap some magical photos
•  Take part in our exciting Pirate Scavenger Hunt
•  Enjoy pirate & mermaid face painting
•  Capture unforgettable memories at our themed photo opportunities
•  Meet and feed our friendly farm animals
•  Visit our cuddly petting barn and fascinating reptile room animals
•  Race around the go-kart track
•  Bounce away on our giant outdoor bouncy pillows
•  Explore our indoor and outdoor play areas

…and enjoy everything else Mountpanther Farm Park has to offer!

It's the perfect family day out, packed with adventure, imagination, and magical memories for little pirates and mermaids alike.

Book your ticket here

Scotland: The latest Newsletter and vacancies from the NHS Scotland AFTP Team as of 22nd July

 

The Armed Forces Talent Programme is an NHS Scotland-wide recruitment initiative for the armed forces community.

It supports service leavers, veterans, spouses, partners, dependants, reservists, cadets, and cadet forces adult volunteers to enter our workforce.

Vacancies

See the AFTP Newsletter HERE

For more information about our programme, the team, and what we're getting up to - see our AFTP webpage

Recruit for Spouses: Your Summer Refresher – How RFS Supports You

Recruit for Spouses have a Summer newsletter with information about their support programmes and how they can help in terms of both employment and wellbeing.

To read the newsletter in full, please go to: Your Summer Refresher: How RFS Supports You

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment: 28 Executive Officer Recruitment Consultant roles across London – closing date 5 Aug

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have a total of 28 Executive Officer (EO) Recruitment Consultant vacancies across London. These may be of interest to Service leavers, veterans and Service community members looking at Civil Service roles.

Civil Service Jobs link with further information on the roles available, and application details:

Universal Credit Job Centre - EO Recruitment Consultant Role - London (Ref: 770) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

The closing date is 29 July.