Staffordshire, West Midlands and Shropshire: Are you on the move soon??

 Are you or someone you know due to be posted to Lichfield, Stafford, Birmingham, Donnington, Ternhill, Bramcote or Kineton soon?

If so contact the Central HIVE Hub to request pre-arrival information.

Email: RC-Pers-HIVE-CentralHub-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Core information sheets are available from the HIVE and contain useful information on accommodation,employment,health & wellbeing, finance, childcare,schools & adult education as well as location overview of community amenities, facilities and activities etc. There is also help with general queries regarding the local area.

Central HIVE Hub can also provide you with information sheets on other locations across the UK and overseas. Please call in to speak to the Area HIVE information officer or use the contact details above.

Information provided by  Central HIVE Hub

Grampian: NHS Grampian New Sexual Health Website

Grampian Sexual Health Services are excited to announce the launch of our new website, designed to make accessing information and support easier than ever. Whether you’re looking for advice, testing, treatment, or resources, our site is here to help people take control of their sexual health.

West Midlands: Models for Heroes model making sessions at RAF Cosford HIVE

 

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Shrewsbury Ex Personnel & Military Hub - Weekly Group Sessions

 Scan QR code or click HERE for more information

North Yorkshire: Reframing Movement for Military Communities

 Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Staffordshire: FREE Virtual Parenting Sessions

 For more information - scan the QR code or click HERE

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Shropshire: Fierce Pride Boxing for Veterans and Serving Personnel - Free Boxing and Military Fitness Classes

More details can be found HERE
 

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

North Yorkshire: North Yorkshire Sport - Military Action Planning Workshops - Face to face Feb 26

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Haverfordwest: Haverfordwest Green and Clean Team 2026 Dates

Supporters of the Green and Clean Team tidying up our town. Follow the Teams activities on their Facebook page.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Haverfordwest: AWS Lego Club, every Tuesday (Termtime) at Cashfield Community Centre

Participants will need to be registered with AWS, click here to complete the AWS Annual Registration form.

Lego Club - For ages 5 - 12
Every Tuesday (Termtime only) 1630 - 1800 at Cashfield Community Centre.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Kent & Medway: Release the Pressure, 24-Hour Support Service

It's natural to feel anxious or under stress in uncertain times. If you are feeling the pressure today, do not suffer in silence.

Release the Pressure is a free, confidential 24-hour service. Support is available whenever you need it.

To get in touch you can:

Text the word 'Medway' or 'Kent' to 85258

Use the Release the Pressure webchat services

Call 0800 107 0160.

Release the Pressure is provided by independent charities and funded by Kent County Council and Medway Council.

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Hampshire: - Hampshire Fostering Services

 

Every share matters. By working together, we can inspire more families to consider fostering and give more children the chance to thrive in a loving home. Please use the hashtag #MyBestFriendEve

Facebook ; https://www.facebook.com/HampshireChildren

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/hampshirechildren/

Linkedin   : https://www.linkedin.com/company/hantschildren

You can also find more information about fostering in Hampshire here:

https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/fostering

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

London: Being Dad coffee morning - Fridays 1030-1200hrs

Being Dad is a well-being project with SEL Mind for expectant or new dads, or men with parenting responsibilities, to help them cope with the challenges of fatherhood. Meet other dads. share the load and have a good brew. 

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Church Crookham: Army Welfare Service Juniors Youth Club Every Thursday 1600hrs to 1730hrs

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Army Health and Wellbeing Campaign - #SupportIsStrength

Your life matters. Help is here. Real people, real support, anytime.

If you are struggling or are worried about a mate, reach out to get help or get them to talk to someone.

Support is always available!

Where to get help is in the AID booklet, available on the Army website at https://www.army.mod.uk/media/v4nn31fj/20260119-suicide-aid-booklet-ac64672.pdf Also available on Defence Connect via these links: AID Suicide Prevention Booklet , AID Suicide Prevention Poster or:

Armed Forces Support Line 24/7 - Call 0800 323 4444

Samaritans 24/7 - Call 116 123

Text SHOUT to 85258 –Text messaging service, available 24/7

You can also speak to your family and friends who know you best, your Unit Medical Officer, Chain of Command, Unit Welfare Team or Padre.

Other information and resources to support can be found at: British Army - Ask For Help,  Army Health and Wellbeing Defence Connect.

#SupportIsStrength #BritishArmy #AskForHelp

Leuchars Station: Community Centre Timetable of events

click on image to enlarge

Contact the HIVE for more information: RC-Per-HIVE-Scotland-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Richmond: Seeking new players for Richmond Town Ladies FC

We are seeking a couple of players to add to our squad for the remainder of this season.

Please get in touch if you’d like to know more or come to training. Details all in the poster or DM this page 

Training is Richmond School - 3G Wednesday 7-8pm

Likely to change to Tuesday & Thursdays once the light comes back.

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Scotland: ABF Cateran Yomp Relay - the TAB, Sat 6th June

click on image to enlarge

To see more Army Benevolent Fund, Scotland events for the year 👉 LINK 

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Stirling: Kaiviti 7's Saturday 4th July at Stirling County RFC

click on image to enlarge

Stirling Kaiviti 7s is not only a rugby tournament for the military community — it is a celebration that brings together the wider community around us.

Rugby has the power to unite people, fostering community spirit while creating an opportunity to share our love of the game, enjoy great food, and learn from one another’s cultures.

We invite everyone to be part of this special event. Please mark your calendars — you won’t want to miss this beautiful celebration at Stirling Rugby Football Club on Saturday, 4th July 2026.

Thank you and vinaka.

Ms Lou Boila MBE
Director and Head of HR
Stirling Kaiviti 7s 2026

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Catterick: Vacancies for Early Years Professionals at Banana Moon Day Nursery

 Closing Date April

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Scotland: Online Breastfeeding Support Group - did you know you can get online breastfeeding support in Scotland?

💠 Virtual Tuesdays  

💠 Every Tuesday, The Breastfeeding Network offers an Online Breastfeeding Support group, which is for anyone in Scotland  

💠 Offering mums online 1:1 or group support where ever they may be

💠 Sessions are free - use the link below to receive your log in details:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/58624689183 (or you can find the link in the Midlothian Linktree)

💠 Booking closes at 5pm on the day of the group - please book before then.

Dorset: Special Education Needs & Disabilities help and support for ages 0 - 25.

Where to get some help and support

If you’re a bit unsure as to where to go first to find some help and advice relating to your child/young person’s needs then we have put together some information about some of the key places for resources and helpful people to speak to:

Our Local Offer provides information, advice and support for children and young people aged from 0 to 25 years with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families.
Visit SEND Local Offer HERE


Information provided by Bovington HIVE

For more information and support services

Family Welfare Matters Newsletter – Jan 2026 Issue Out Now

For more information on any of the Family Welfare Matters content, please contact your nearest HIVE or our HQ on: RC-Pers-HIVEComms-0Mailbox (MULTIUSER) RC-Pers-HIVEComms-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

West Midlands: Health and Social Care Survey for UK Armed Forces Veterans in Coventry and Warwickshire

The purpose of the research is to find out what UK Armed Forces Veterans living in Coventry and Warwickshire think about health and social care research. For the purposes of this survey the definition of a Veteran is someone who has served for one day or more in either the Regular or Reserve UK Armed Forces.

Please complete the survey HERE

Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Grantham: Shine Adult Short Courses

Information provided by Grantham HIVE

Scotland: Forces Employment Charity, NOVA Scotland now offers support to Veterans

We’re proud to announce that our justice service NOVA Scotland now provides specialist trauma-informed support for veterans from the moment they come into contact with Police Scotland Custody Centres.

Through our partnership with the police force, veterans will be offered a referral to NOVA Scotland so we can help them access practical and emotional support to address issues such as poor physical or mental health, homelessness and financial hardship.

We stand by those who served when they need us most.

Read more: https://loom.ly/3f3jH6Q

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Alton: Alton Repair Cafe

 

Our Repair Café is moving to the Alton Assembly Rooms in 2026. It will be held on the 3rd Saturday of EVERY month. This will make it much easier for people to know when to take their household items for repair.

If you would like further details please e-mail altonrepaircafe21@gmail.com

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Give Us Time: Latest Update now published

Give Us Time’s latest briefing includes details of tickets for the Birmingham International Tattoo in February, and all remaining March breaks.

To find out more please go to: www.giveustime.org.uk

Defence Infrastructure Organisation: Families First Newsletter Issue 34 (21 Jan) Now Published

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, dated 21 Jan, is now available to view on the Defence Homes website.

Lichfield: SAFETY CONCERN NOTICE

 A reminder that people are not to drive over the grassed areas in the housing estate next to camp.  There have been increasing concerns of cars driving over the grass where there might be children playing.

This is a safety concern

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Stafford: Tasty Bake - 10% Armed Forces discount

10% discount to the Armed Forces community.  Please contact Carrie direct with any enquiries. 

Email: Tasty_bake2021@yahoo.com
 

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Career Transition Partnership – Upcoming Employment Fairs in Newcastle and Lincoln

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

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

St Andrews: Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast is back at Craigtoun Country Park, 1st Sunday of the month

The AFVBC has returned to the Craigtoun Cafe with meetings taking place on the first Sunday of every month. All veterans from all Arms / Services are welcome. 

Tea or coffee and a breakfast roll = £4.50.

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Richmond: New Year New Challenge with Richmondshire Ravens Ladies Rugby

New year new you

Looking for a new challenge come give this a try

No experience needed just a willing to get muddy and make new friends

For more information click HERE

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Blandford: Garrison cinema volunteer opportunities

The Forum Cinema Blandford is looking for volunteers to join our small team. It has been open and running since 1997 and is a major asset to our community. We are the most visited BFBS cinema in the UK and we would love to see it continue to grow. There is a variety of volunteering opportunities to suit everyone. Help as little or as much as you would like. Tasks include

* Projectionist

* Ticket sales

* Food sales

* Social media /Advertising / Posters

Films are shown 2 nights a week from 18.30 on either Monday, Wednesday or Friday

And 2 to 4 Sundays a month from 13.30

If you are interested, please contact Theresa.sansom100@mod.gov.uk for more information.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Primary School Aged Children's Overseas Allowance - Q&A Session 22 Jan 2026

The launch of the PSACO Allowance means eligible Service families will have access to before and after school childcare funding in all overseas locations.

PSACO eligibility criteria and guidance can be found on the Discover My Benefits website.

Primary School Aged Childcare Overseas (PSACO) Allowance – Q&A 22 Jan

There is a Q&A for SP and families on 22 Jan at 13.30. Those interested in attending can complete the MS Form and the joining details will be emailed to them.

Catterick: FREE Stay and Play Colburn Village Hall every Wednesday

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

 

Hereford: Free Kids Fun Club, every Saturday at Lyde Court

Lyde Court | Every Saturday | 10am–4pm | Free Entry

Join us every Saturday for Kids Fun Club at Lyde Court, a relaxed, creative space where children can play, build, and explore at their own pace. Set in our rustic barn and outdoor spaces, Kids Fun Club is a self-led drop-in session featuring LEGO building, crafts, colouring, and garden games. With plenty of bricks, materials, and space to play, children are free to create, imagine, and enjoy hands-on fun throughout the day.

Free to attend, but let us know you’re coming! A simple, joyful way to spend a Saturday at Lyde Court.

For more information please click here.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 16 January 2026

New Armed Forces Bill to drive the biggest renewal of Service Family housing in a generation

Service families will benefit from the newly introduced Armed Forces Bill which promises better housing, better services and better protections for our forces and their families.

The Bill will create a new Defence Housing Service, which will have a simple ethos – to put the needs of forces and their families first and drive the biggest improvement in forces accommodation for a generation.

Read the full article on Defence Homes here.

Royal Wootton Bassett: Wellbeing Cafe alternate Thursdays

Information provided by Lyneham HIVE

Hereford: Hereford Cathedral - 10% off with Blue Light & Defence Discount Cards

 

BLUE LIGHT & DEFENCE DISCOUNT | Hereford Cathedral is excited to share that it is now offering 10% off in both the café and shop for Blue Light Card and Defence Discount Card holders.

It’s their way of saying thank you for all that you do!
Just show your valid card at the till to enjoy the discount.

The Hereford Cathedral Café & Shop is open Monday–Saturday 10– 5pm (last orders in the Café 4.30pm).

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Hereford: New Journey Planning App for Herefordshire - Citymapper

Joining the Citymapper app means travel planning is smarter and easier for Herefordshire residents and visitors.

A new partnership between Herefordshire Council and leading journey planning app, Citymapper, means Herefordshire residents, students and visitors will now find it easier to plan journeys across the county. To read more please click here.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

BFBS’ MiPlayer Platform Turns Ten: A Decade of Innovation Entertaining UK Armed Forces Worldwide

16 January 2026: BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) today celebrates the tenth anniversary of its MiPlayer platform, the powerful service created to keep UK Armed Forces connected to home and entertainment, when they’re serving in the most remote and hostile environments.

What began in January 2016 as a modest onboard system delivering ten TV channels and six radio stations to HMS Iron Duke has grown into one of BFBS’ most significant and far-reaching innovations, now operating across the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary fleets, operational bases, remote islands and soon, even on submarines.

Reflecting on the milestone, Nick Beer, Director of BFBS Development and Strategy, said: “MiPlayer started as a bold idea to solve a seemingly impossible problem: how do you bring home to people serving in the most remote and demanding environments on Earth? And how do you do that in the way users demand: on their personal devices and with catchup when there is little or no internet available?

SSAFA Short Breaks for Children with Additional Needs & Disabilities - now OPEN!

What Are SSAFA Short Breaks?

SSAFA Short Breaks are free, residential activity breaks for families currently serving in the Armed Forces who have a child (aged 5–18) with an additional need and/or disability. These breaks offer families a chance to spend quality time together, enjoy inclusive activities, and build confidence and resilience. Families will be responsible for their own travel costs; however, if this presents a challenge, the SSAFA team may be able to support.

Who Can Apply?

• Families with children aged 5–18, where at least one child has an additional need and/or disability.
• Children must be dependents of a current serving person or reservist.
• At least one parent must attend the break.
• Families must not have attended a SSAFA Short Break in the last five years.

Two-Stage Application Process

This year, SSAFA is introducing a two-stage application process for Short Breaks applications. We will prioritise families where the need is greatest. This assessment helps us understand your situation and make sure support is offered fairly and where it can have the most impact. Every family deserves access to support that reflects their lived reality. For military families with children who have additional needs and disabilities, that support must be flexible, respectful, and emotionally safe. This assessment helps us understand what that looks like for you and your family and helps us determine if SSAFA’s Short Breaks can meet that need at this time, when considered in relation to other applications.

Stage 1 – Basic Eligibility
Families complete an online form to confirm they meet the core criteria. Only those who pass Stage 1 will be invited to Stage 2. Apply for Stage 1 SSAFA Short Breaks 2026.

Bovington: Poppies tearooms extended opening hours

 

Everyone welcome. Child & pet friendly. 
Poppies is located next to the Memorial Hall, King George V Road, BH20 6JQ.
Free car parking.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE