Building Heroes: Building Confidence, Skills and Employer Connections After Service

Building Confidence, Skills and Employer Connections After Service

Building Heroes does more than deliver construction training. Our programmes are designed to help members of the Armed Forces community gain confidence, understand the sector and connect with real opportunities after service.

Across our academy network, learners take part in practical, hands-on training supported by specialist tutors and academy teams. Alongside this, Building Heroes works with employers and industry partners to help learners understand where their new skills could lead.

This may include employer talks, site visits, introductions to local businesses, insight into different job roles and guidance around next steps. These experiences help learners see the breadth of opportunities available across construction and the built environment, from trades and site-based roles to supervision, retrofit, infrastructure, engineering and customer care pathways.

For Service Leavers, Veterans, Reservists and immediate family members, this combination of training, support and employer engagement can make a real difference. It helps learners build not only practical skills, but also the confidence to picture themselves in a new civilian career.

With autumn programmes starting from mid-September 2026, now is a good time to explore the courses available and register interest. Some academies are already seeing strong demand for the first cohorts of the new academic year.

To find out more and apply, visit: www.buildingheroes.org.uk/courses

Chippenham: Free HomeStart Parent & Child Group on Thursdays

 

Please click here for further details or to register for a place

Information provided by Colerne & Lyneham HIVEs

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 27 August 2026

Be 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.

Further information
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 website.

DIO: Families First Newsletter – 27 August 2026

The latest issue of the DIO Families First newsletter for SFA occupants is now available to read online at Families First Newsletter - Issue 41

You can sign up to receive the latest news direct to your own inbox from DIO at: Newsletter Landing Page – Defence Homes

York & North Yorkshire: Just B supporting Mens Mental Health

 Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Tri-Service Contact House Directory – where to find it online, or how to request a copy

Contact 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 access the most up to date version of the Tri-Service Contact House Directory, please use any of the following options:

• Go to the Army HIVE webpage at 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 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 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 copy

Catterick: Love to sing? Join the Military Wags Choir

Ever catch yourself belting out tunes in the shower, or treating the kettle boiling to a full blown kitchen concert?

Time to bring that main character energy somewhere it's actually appreciated. 

​Whether you’re a soprano hitting glass shattering high notes or an alto happily rumbling away down below, we honestly don't care if you sound like an angel or a very enthusiastic blender.

There are zero auditions, zero stress, and absolute zero judgment.

​Military wives, affiliates, girlfriends, and servicewomen-you are officially in.
​When: Thursdays from 6:00pm – 7:30pm
​Where: Garrison Memorial Church (DL9 4ES)
​The best bit: We have a free crèche available, so you can hand over the kids, escape reality for a bit, and enjoy some well deserved adult time.

​Whether you want to shine in big concerts or just fancy a weekly singalong to get out of the house, come find your crowd.

​Drop us a message or head over to militarywagschoir.co.uk and come see what all the fuss is about!

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Ripon: Thinking about Learning with ALSS?

 
If you're thinking about enrolling on an Adult Learning Course, the team will be at Ripon Community House between 1pm and 3pm on Tuesday 8th September to give advice and help you through the process.

For more information visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/adultlearning
Tel: 01609 536 066 or Email: AdultLearningService@northyorks.gov.uk

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Catterick: New Women's Spaces is being Launched in Catterick Garrison starting 29th Sept

New Women’s Spaces to be launched at Catterick Garrison.

The initial session will take place on Tuesday 29th September, 10:00 – 14:00: Susan Elwood House, Catterick Garrison DL9 3AX (near Hipswell lodge) Parking is available.

The session will provide a safe, welcoming environment where women can access support, build connections, and share experiences.

Specialist professionals, who understand the unique barriers women may face, will be available to offer compassionate, non-judgemental support. The sessions will also create opportunities for peer support, enabling women to connect with other women within the local army community.

These sessions are available to all serving women and female family members of serving personnel. We want every woman who attends to feel valued, supported, and empowered.

The Women’s Space will be open on a drop-in basis from 10:00 to 14:00, with a dedicated session between 12:00 and 13:00 for women to come together, connect with their peers, and build meaningful relationships in a safe and supportive setting.

The programme will be shaped by the interests and needs of those who attend, helping to ensure future sessions are relevant, meaningful, and beneficial to the women in our military community.

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Wifinity: Exclusive connectivity discounts for personnel & families in SFA

 

Wifinity: Exclusive connectivity discounts for personnel in SLA & families in SFA

 

Recruit for Spouses: Jobs for spouses, partners & veterans at Serco

This update covers the latest in Service community recruitment opportunities across healthcare, corporate ops, leisure & hospitality, and more.

To view this newsletter, which provides further information on all of the above, please go to: NEW - Jobs for spouses, partners & veterans at Serco

Serve & Protect Credit Union: Free financial webinars this September

Dates are detailed below; to find out more or to register for a webinar, please go to: https://sandpcu.co.uk/hs-webinars

Car Finance: More than a Monthly Payment
Date: Tuesday 1st September
Time: 12:00-12:45

Green Living: Simple Eco-Friendly Tips to Lower Your Bills
Date: Thursday 3rd September
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Tips for living a greener life to save money and protect the planet!

Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money
Date: Thursday 10th September
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.

Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score
Date: Thursday 17th September
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Understand the importance of looking after your credit score, plus actionable tips to improve yours.

Harmful Effects of Gambling w/ GamCare
Date: Tuesday 22nd September
Time: 12:00-13:00
What to Expect: Discover the financial impacts of harmful gambling with representatives from GamCare.

Saving Made Simple: Practical Tips to Boost Your Savings
Date: Wednesday 23rd, Friday 25th September
Time: 12:00-12:45
What to Expect: Explore 10 practical savings methods that anyone can apply to build a healthy savings cushion.

Borrow Smarter: Tips to Strengthen Your Loan Application
Date: Tuesday 29th September
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.

Wifinity: Exclusive connectivity discounts for personnel in Service Families Accommodation

Ultrafast broadband flexible for families into SFA homes - Wifinity Forces Fibre Monthly rolling contracts available.

Wifinity: Exclusive connectivity discounts for personnel in Single Living Accommodation

Low cost eSIM for deployment and travel - Wifinity | Explore our low cost eSIM plans

• Cheapest options on the market for MOD personnel and families going abroad
• 10% discount for MOD personnel and families using code HIVE10
• 20% discount for existing Wifinity customers. Customers can log into their ‘My Account’ to get their code

Dorset: Local (Wool/Bovington) area volunteer drivers needed

SHARE & CARE

Volunteer drivers needed. Imagine having no car, living in a local village, and needing to get to a medical appointment. Many of our neighbours face this challenge every day. Could you help?

Share & Care is a friendly team of volunteer drivers who help local people get to their medical appointments.

✅ Times to suit you
✅ Fuel costs reimbursed
✅ Make a real difference in your community

Not able to drive?
📞 We also need volunteers to help answer our telephone line.
Join us and help support your neighbours.
Interested? Call: 07751 968 944

Thank you for caring.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Shorncliffe: Army Welfare Service SANO NANEE Home Start Shorncliffe Community Centre Parent & Toddler Group Every Monday from 1000 - 1130hrs

 

Information Provided by South East HIVE Hub

South East: Army Benevolent Fund Support the Army's national charity

 

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Shorncliffe: Army Welfare Service Shorncliffe Dance Club Every Tuesday Term Times 1630 - 1730hrs

 

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Dover: AWS Community Support Free Pilates / Zumba Fitness Class at Burgoyne Heights on Monday Mornings

 

Information provided by SE HIVE Hub

Shorncliffe: Army Welfare Service Junior Youth Club Shornecliffe Community Centre Mondays 1630-1800hrs

 Information Provided by South East HIVE Hub

Blandford: Garrison welfare newsletter - Autumn edition

Click on above images to enlarge.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE 

Defence Children Services students celebrate 2026 exam results

 

Students at Defence Children Services secondary schools have been celebrating throughout August, with many progressing to university, military careers and apprenticeships. Read more about this year's results at Queen Victoria School, King Richard School and St John's School: 

 Defence Children Services students celebrate 2026 exam results

Northern Ireland: Back To School Contact Information

BACK TO SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

With the new school term about to start, the Education Authority NI (EANI) have published contact details for any queries you may have in relation to Special Educational Needs (SEN) services, Free school meals and uniform grant, Home to School Transport, School Admissions and General enquiries.

Please see Useful Back to School contact information which can be accessed by the link below:

Back to School | Education Authority Northern Ireland

Catterick: Your Weekly Baby Social Hub - Every Tues

A cosy weekly space for you and your little one

A relaxed, welcoming group for new parents to breathe, connect and feel supported. Come together with others in those early whirlwind months, share what you’re going through, and find guidance when you need it.

No pressure, no expectations; just a warm space that shapes itself around you.

Whether you want company, reassurance, practical tips or simply a quiet moment; you’re always welcome.

Come as you are. Leave feeling a little lighter.

Starting on Tuesday 8th September

9:15-11:45

Colburn Children & Family Hub, DL9 4RF

Feel free to contact us for more info, or just turn up on the day.

We look forward to meeting you and your little one.

Information provided by North HVIE Hub

London: Zoo Lodges Stay over at London Zoo

 

Set in the heart of London Zoo, enjoy an overnight escape from the bustle of London without even leaving the city, and discover what happens at the Zoo after dark.

Join us for exclusive after-hours tours before bedding down for the night in a private lodge, within roaring distance of our Asiatic lion pride. With both adult and family night options available you can plan an amazing staycation or zoo sleepover, perfect for animal lovers!

Click HERE for further information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Department for Work & Pensions: Latest roundup of news – 21 Aug 26

Department for Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus) arrangements for Monday 31 August bank holiday

Department for Work and Pensions (including Jobcentre Plus) arrangements are different for 31 August bank holiday:

England, Scotland and Wales 

• On Monday 31 August offices and phone lines are closed

To make sure people get their payment on a day when our offices are open, arrangements have been made to make some payments early.

If the expected payment date is Monday 31 August, then benefits will be on Friday 28 August.

If the expected payment date is not shown, customers will get their money on their usual payment date.

Free bus travel 24/7 for disabled people

From 1 April 2027, people who hold a disabled bus pass can travel on buses for free, no matter the time of day. This extra support will help to open up access to workplaces, education, training, and other opportunities as well as giving people breathing space on the cost of living and putting money back in people’s pockets.

Currently, disabled bus passes are only valid for travel between 9.30am and 11pm during weekdays, unless local authorities choose to fund an extension.

Read the press release

Government invests in young people with more opportunities close to home

Thousands more young people will be able to gain the skills, qualifications and experience they need for future careers, as part of a major package to break down barriers stopping access to technical education, training, and apprenticeships.

The package includes: A new bursary, worth up to £4,500 per year per household, that will remove a barrier that can otherwise discourage young people from taking up an apprenticeship, helping them build the skills and independence that lead to long-term, well-paid work. Thousands more college places to expand access to skills and training close to home. Free apprenticeship training for all eligible under-25s from August, up to £8,000 in support for SMEs hiring young apprentices, and National Insurance Contributions relief for apprentices under 25 will help deliver 50,000 new youth apprenticeships.

Find out more

Alton: A31 Primary Care Network - Health on the High Street Every Wednesday 1000 - 1300

 

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Lichfield: AWS CS Youth Clubs Ages 9 years+ - Monday 1800-1930

 Please complete annual registration via QR code or via this LINK

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Lichfield AWS CS Youth Club ages 5-9 years - Tuesday 1800-1915

 

Please complete annual registration via QR code or via this LINK

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Weeton: DJ Training for age 11-17 starting 10th September

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

Weeton: AWS Community Service weekly groups

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

St Andrews: West Sands Ranger Summer Beach Clean, Saturday 12th September 10am - 12pm

click on image to enlarge 

An easy stroll on the beach collecting marine waste and litter.

All equipment provided. Dogs and accompanied children welcome

Meet by the Dook Cafe on the beach road, no need to book, dress for the weather!

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Fife: Welcome to Fife's What's on this week in Fife 23rd - 29th August

There's lots going in Fife just now. If you're looking for something to do next week check out Welcome to Fife's what's on guide for ideas and inspiration

Here's a summary:

🎨 Monday 24th
Creative Textile Workshop - Dunfermline

🏌 Thursday 27th
World Golf Museum Lecture – St Andrews

🕯 Friday 28th
Grass to Grill Tour – Bowhouse near St Monans
Anstruther Harbour Festival - on to 30th

General Sosabowski Wreath Laying Ceremony – Lundin Links
Candle Lighting Ceremony at The Graves of General Sosabowski’s Soldiers – Upper Largo

🏃 Saturday 29th
Kirkcaldy Parks Running Festival (also on 30th)
Harvest Festival & Sosabowski Weekend – Kirkcaldy
Phytomer Facial Discovery Afternoon at Kohler Spa – St Andrews
Paper Making Workshop – Newport on Tay
Craigtoun Kicks Ash Fire Walking – Criagtoun Park near St Andrews
The Art Of Feeling: Empowering Workshop – Dunfermline
Lime Mortar Course – Cambo Estate
Falkland Memorial wreath laying
Floral Dish Arrangement Class – St Monans

Catterick: Brompton & Catterick St Annes Scout Group are looking for volunteers

We’re looking for volunteers to help us grow Brompton & Catterick St Annes Scout Group !

Whether you want to volunteer with the young people or help behind the scenes with admin or events, we need you.

All you need is a sense of humour and a little spare time!

Together, we can create even more amazing experiences for local young people.

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Leuchars: Bright Horizons Day Care Centre and UK Nursery Authority

click on image to enlarge

Further information can be found at Childcare for Service children - GOV.UK

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

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 up 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

Leuchars: Military Wives Choir, is on Mondays 18.00 - 19.30 in the Community Centre

Leuchars Military Wives Choir meet in the Community Centre on Monday evenings 1830-2000hrs

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Exceptional GCSE Results at The Duke of York’s Royal Military School

Exceptional GCSE Results at The Duke of York’s Royal Military School

Students at The Duke of York's Royal Military School are celebrating another year of exceptional GCSE results, where a third of grades were 9-7 and 69% of students gained a 5 or above in both English and Maths. Many students have also secured prestigious academic and sports scholarships as they continue their educational journey into the school's Sixth Form.

Principal Alex Foreman said: "Education today asks more of schools than ever before, and I am incredibly proud that our students continue to rise to every challenge. These results are a testament to their commitment, ambition, and perseverance, alongside the dedication of our outstanding staff.

As a boarding school, we offer something distinctive: a community built on belonging, opportunity and strong relationships, where young people are given the confidence to grow academically and personally. We often talk about nurturing 'acorns into oaks', and these results show what can be achieved when young people are supported to develop not only knowledge and skills, but also character, resilience and independence.

We celebrate every one of our students and look forward to seeing the difference they will make in the years ahead."

This year's GCSE students have laid strong foundations for the next stage of their education. Twenty-four students have been awarded academic scholarships in recognition of their outstanding examination performance, while twenty-two students have received sports scholarships, celebrating their talent, dedication and leadership both on and off the field. Twelve of these students will join the School's Rugby Performance Pathway, delivered in partnership with Saracens Rugby Club, providing an exceptional opportunity to combine academic study with elite sporting development.

At The Duke of York's Royal Military School, students benefit from outstanding teaching, small class sizes and a unique boarding environment that supports both academic achievement and personal development. Alongside an exceptional education, students develop the confidence, resilience and leadership skills that prepare them for success in Sixth Form and beyond.

The School congratulates all students on their achievements and looks forward to welcoming many of them into Sixth Form as they continue their journey as Dukies.

Applications for September entry remain open, with academic scholarships available for external applicants.

For more information, visit www.doyrms.com.

Catterick Village: Calling all Year 9 & 10 Girls for Catterick Village Roses u15s

 CALLING ALL YEAR 9 & 10 GIRLS! 

​Are you ready to lace up your boots, make new mates, and have some fun on the pitch?

​Catterick Village Roses U15s are looking for new players to join us, we are currently in pre-season training with the season starting in September!

Whether you’ve played for years or have never kicked a ball before, all abilities are welcome.

​Here are the details:
​Who: Girls in School Year 9 & Year 10 (from Sept)

​When: Mondays & Wednesdays | 18:00 – 19:30

​Where: Catterick Village Sports Field

​Come along to a training session, give it a go, and be a part of the Roses family! 

​Interested or have questions? Drop us a message directly on our Facebook page HERE to find out more or register your interest!

Information provided by North HIVE Hub