Give Us Time - Autumn last minute breaks and more!

Give Us Time still have lots of breaks and other opportunities available over the coming months – read all the way down for the big news!

“Give Us Time supports Forces families to spend time together on donated respite breaks following separation due to deployment, bereavement, physical or mental injuries, financial need, or other welfare issues.”  Find out more at Frequently asked questions - Give us time - Breaks for service personnel and their families

OCTOBER

• Cwm Llan cabin, North Wales, 5 – 9 October, sleeps 2
• Broadland Sands Holiday Park, Suffolk, 5 -9 October, sleeps 6
• Seawick Holiday Park, Essex, 12 – 16 October, sleeps 6

Give Us A Moment days out for half term:

• Visit the newly re-opened Palm Houses at Edinburgh Botanic Gardens
• Enjoy Pumpkin Picking at Hatters Farm, Essex
• Explore the Gardens at Monteviot House near Jedburgh

NOVEMBER

• Polperro, Cornwall, Platinum standard lodge, 9 – 13 November, sleeps 6
• Pevensey Bay, Sussex, Platinum standard lodge, 9 – 13 November, sleeps 6

DECEMBER

• Kidlandlee holiday cottage, Northumberland, 7 – 11 December, sleeps 6

PLUS THE RV GUESTHOUSE, FALMOUTH - DATES THROUGHOUT OCTOBER, NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

THE BIG ONE!! 🎄🎅🎁

We’re also thrilled to have more tickets for the Polar Express! This year we’ll be travelling along the Spa Valley Railway from Tunbridge Wells, Kent, on Friday 6 November, leaving at 7pm - please visit the website for more information!

As always, we book on a first come first served basis via the website - https://bookings.giveustime.org.uk/login - breaks are accommodation only, days out are entry ticket only – GUT cannot cover the costs of travel, food etc.

Serve and Protect Credit Union: Fixed interest rate now increased - Fixed Saver 14 - Guaranteed Return of 4.25% AER

 

Fixed interest rate now increased - 4.25% Fixed-Rate Savings Account - Now Available

Serve and Protect Credit Union are pleased to announce the latest fixed-rate savings account is now available paying a guaranteed return of 4.25% AER.

✅ 4.25% AER fixed for 12 months (starting 1st November 2026)
✅ Balances between £1,000-£10,000
✅No fees or charges
✅Available until 28th October 2026

This is simply for your awareness—it’s not a recommendation.
Please take a look and decide if it’s right for you.

The account is available to apply for between 1st to 28th October 2026 and you need to become a member first – which is free.

You can learn more here:
https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/save/fixed-saver/
Terms and eligibility criteria apply.

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) scheme: HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS), Leyland - Closing Date 27 October 2026

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme (2 vacancies in total):

GFIE 509 - Specialist Prison Industries (SPI) : Engineering Machining – Leyland (HMP Wymott)

Closing Date: 27th October 2026

🎯 What You’ll Be Doing

👨‍🏫 📚 🛠Teaching & Supervising: Teach, instruct, and supervise prisoners in an engineering machining workshop to help them attain nationally recognised qualifications and improve their employment prospects upon release.

⚙ 📋 🏭Workshop Management: Set work schedules, manage production targets and quality standards, log attendance, approve wages/hours, and maintain machinery and tool checks.

Safety & Security: Maintain security and discipline, conduct metal detector scans or rub-down searches, complete safety/incident reports (such as ACCT, VRIR, and SIRs), and enforce health and safety standards (including COSHH).

🔒 🛡 🚨Prisoner Development: Induct prisoners, tailor training to individual needs, and contribute to progress reports, parole, and sentence planning.

Job description

GFiE roles are 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 a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EoI Form (also see Guidance Notes) 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)

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) scheme: DWP Learning Planner Officer, Sheffield - Closing Date: 25 October 2026

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme (2 vacancies in total):

GFIE-500 – DWP Learning Planner Officer - Sheffield

Closing Date: 25 October 2026

Job description

GFiE roles are 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 a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EoI Form (also see Guidance Notes) 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)

Bovington: BFBS Radio live on air throughout the Garrison

 

The military community in Bovington Garrison can listen to BFBS Radio on 100.8FM.

The schedule brings listeners a great mix of local and global radio, combining the BFBS Blandford Breakfast Show – weekdays from 0630-1000hrs – with programmes from BFBS Radio’s worldwide network.

The BFBS service will continue to be maintained in Bovington on 1287 AM too.

If you have a story or message that you would like to broadcast on BFBS, please contact Producer/Presenter for BFBS Blandford, Jason Herbert, via blandford@bfbs.com.

BLANDFORD CAMP

BFBS radio Namaste, Blandford. BFBS Gurkha 101.5FM

Blandford Garrison radio is live on 100.8FM

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan: Citizens Advice - Military Moves Made Easy - Advice on Relocation

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub

Vale of Glamorgan: Vale Family Compass - Have your say on childcare in the Vale

 

Vale Family Compass - Have your say on childcare in the Vale

We want to hear from parents and carers about their experiences of childcare.

• Can you access the childcare you need?
• What’s important to you when choosing childcare?
• What makes childcare difficult to access?
• What could be better?

Your feedback will help us understand what childcare is like for families across the Vale and identify where there are gaps, challenges or opportunities to improve.

Complete the survey here

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub

URGENT - Last Minute Parkdean Resort Holiday Breaks Available (16-23 Oct 26) – Apply by 1200hrs on 1 Oct

 

FAO Regular Army personnel.

HQ Regional Command has secured additional 3 x fully funded 7-night Parkdean Resort family breaks that require urgent allocation.

To register your interest, complete this form by clicking the below link or scanning the below QR code. This expression of interest will close at 12:00 on Thu 1 Oct 26:

Funded Breaks for Regular Army Personnel (Parkdean Resorts) 16 - 23 Oct 26 – Fill in form

• Open to all Regular Army personnel

• 7 nights accommodation from Fri 16 to Fri 23 Oct 26

• 3-bedroom accommodation (up to 6 people)

• Completely free of charge

• 30% discount voucher for on-site food and beverages

• Applicants considered on a case-by-case basis

Important: Personnel may only register their interest if they:

• Are available to attend for the full duration of the break
• Offer justification as to why they should be considered
• Have obtained authorisation from their Chain of Command

Queries: RC-Pers-WelSpt-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk

Bovington: Garrison mini bus hire

Garrison owned air conditioned mini bus. 8 seats plus driver

Competitive hire rates - £35 per day. (£100 refundable deposit)
No mileage charges, Full fuel tank required on hand back

To book the minibus contact Bovington welfare office via email CMC-BovLulSU-WELFARE-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk or telephone 01929 402240

The driver must have full clean Cat B licence and be over 25 years of age.

Hire of the mini bus is for Bovington/Lulworth Garrison military personnel and MOD civil servants.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Blandford: Welfare/contact house short term use accommodation

Click on poster above to enlarge

The Welfare Team have introduced a new online Contact House booking process, including an online calendar, updated booking guidance, and an online booking request form.

These resources are available through the Defence network. Family members who cannot access them should continue to contact the Welfare Team for support.

All booking requests must be submitted by the Service Person using their details. Please contact us if there is an issue with this.

If you have any questions, queries, or feedback about the new booking process, please contact the Welfare Team at:
Email: Blandfordgar-ContactHse-Bookings@mod.gov.uk
Tel: 07436318137
New SharePoint page: Contact House page.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE via BGSU Welfare team

Folkestone: Parkrun Every Saturday at 0900hrs

Click HERE for more information.

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Surrey: become a registered childminder

Are you considering becoming a registered childminder and would like to find out more?

A registered childminder is a person who looks after one or more children for more than a total of two hours a day in their own home. They are registered and inspected by Ofsted. 

Surrey County Council are committed to supporting childminders to provide high quality childcare and early years education. Our 'Becoming a Registered Childminder' (BaRC) training is made up of two face-to-face full day sessions, delivered over two consecutive weeks, for those interested in joining the childminding profession. 

The training covers the legislation and implications of caring for other people's children in a home environment to ensure that children are safe, well cared for and take part in activities that contribute to their learning and development. 

The training also details your statutory duties as set out in the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Bovington: Poppies tearooms opening times

 

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026 Crowns The S.E.A. Dragons as Season Two Champions in the Royal Air Force Museum London

BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026 Crowns the S.E.A. Dragons as Season Two Champions in the Royal Air Force Museum London

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) has today announced the winners of the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final 2026, following the season-ending esports competition at the Royal Air Force Museum London on 27 September.

Eight teams from across the armed forces esports community came together for a day of competitive gaming, with the championship title ultimately decided in front of a live audience, showcasing the camaraderie and skills that defined this year’s tournament.

The winners of the BFBS Valarian Pro League Grand Final were the S.E.A. Dragons, who claimed the championship title after beating favourites the Army Buzzards in a best of seven by a 4-2 score line.

The 2026 BFBS Valarian Pro League champions have parents who have served, and one is also currently a civil servant in Gibraltar. Talking on behalf of his teammates, Ben Lyon said: “Unbelievable! I’m literally speechless, the amount of hard work we’ve gone through for the semi-finals and finals is immense. I’m proud of both of them!”. MOD civil servants or immediate family members of those who are serving, and veterans were welcome to compete as part of the armed forces community.

First Defence Partners: Is Saving £25 a Month (Or Less) Worth It?

Is Saving £25 a Month (Or Less) Worth It?

When money is tight, saving for the future can feel like something to think about later.

There are bills to pay, things to buy, and more immediate priorities competing for your money. Putting away £25 a month might not seem like it will make much difference.

But long-term saving is less about how much you can put away today and more about giving your money time to build.

You don't need to start with hundreds of pounds a month. A small, regular amount can help you build the habit of saving and give you the opportunity to build a larger pot over time.

How much can you save by putting away £25 a month?

£25 a month can add up to more than you might expect:

• £300 after 1 year
• £1,500 after 5 years
• £3,000 after 10 years

That's simply the money you've put aside yourself, before any interest or returns.

See what saving £25 a month could look like with interest using a savings calculator.

Middle Wallop: Brew & Banter at The Army Flying Museum - Thu 22 Oct

Please click here to visit the website

Information provided by Colerne & Lyneham HIVEs

Darlington: Monthly Social Walking Group

After much success last year and now that the weather is turning, we’ve decided to bring our coffee mornings back! 

These will be once a month, on a Sunday at 10:30am (location is subject to change so please follow the facebook page for updates) www.facebook.com/groups/324287768197273/user/61574016210068/

Whether you’re part of our walking group, or just want to get out and meet new friends, it is open to everyone!

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Northallerton: Make the most of your Saturdays - take part in Northallerton Parkrun

Make the most of your Saturdays – take part in Northallerton parkrun! 

Northallerton Leisure Centre
Every Saturday at 9am

Whether you walk, jog, or run, it’s a great way to start your weekend, get some fresh air and enjoy the sunshine. Suitable for all ages and abilities – and it’s completely free!

Register here to take part: https://www.parkrun.org.uk/northallerton

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Chatham: Home Start Themed Stay & Plays Lampard Centre Mondays 0930hrs -1200hrs Thursdays 1000hrs - 1130hrs

 

 Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Chatham: Army Welfare Service Community Support - Volunteering is it For You?

 

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Chatham: Army Welfare Service Community Support - Brompton Play Club Lampard Centre Mondays Term Time Only 1600hrs -1730hrs

 

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Blandford: Garrison community activities & events

 

Army Welfare Service - Community Support has it's Eventbrite organiser page for Blandford & Bovington Camps.

This is the one stop shop for all AWS Community Support activities in your area where you will find some amazing opportunities for you and your family!

AWS Community Support Blandford


a) Sign up and follow us - the more followers we have the more we can offer and the quicker you'll find out about new events!

b) Spread the word, tell you friends, post it to your socials and help grow our following!

c) Come along to our weekly events and get to know our amazing volunteers and the groups they run.


James Tarring - AWS Community Development Worker - Blandford

james.tarring100@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by Bovington HIVE 

Blandford: Garrison youth club sessions (inters & seniors) Mon & Wed

Venue: Semaphore Arms Function Room (located near the WRVS/Junior Rates Cookhouse and WO/Sgts Mess).

Junior sessions, for children in school years 1 to 3 will return in due course. More information to follow in the coming weeks.

For further information on youth club sessions contact James.Tarring100@mod.gov.uk

Volunteers are always needed to help out. If you can help in anyway at any of the sessions please contact James Tarring at above email address.

For those children that aren’t yet registered, there will be a QR code provided on entry for parents to complete or see below.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE
 

Blandford: Garrison 'Little Buds' baby & toddler group

Information provided by Bovington HIVE

Weeton: Family Christmas Party - Wed 16th December 2026

 Information provided by Weeton HIVE

Easy Resettlement Magazine: Autumn edition out now

Have you read the Autumn issue of Easy Resettlement magazine yet?

In this issue there is information about employment events for service leavers, enabling you to meet future employers and network with companies and fellow service leavers.

ER mag also features the 162 winners of the MODs Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards and as always, you can find information from CTP and about ELCAS entitlements.

Please visit the Easy Resettlement website to read this issue online and download it for free: www.easyresettlement.com/magazine

Colchester: Colchester Garrison Halloween Party - Thursday 22nd October 2026

 

Information Provided by East HIVE Hub

Winchester: Marwell Zoo Wild Autumn

 

From Saturday 24 October - Sunday 1 November 2026, enjoy a wild October half term at Marwell Zoo, where autumn adventures, seasonal activities and amazing wildlife come together for a fun-filled family day out. With plenty to discover across the zoo, Wild Autumn is the perfect way to embrace the season and make some special family memories.

Explore the twists and turns of our Autumn Maze and keep your eyes peeled for the Golden Acorn hidden along the way. Once you've found it, answer the question for your chance to win a magical prize. Will you be able to spot it?

Click HERE for further information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Weeton: Weekly Youth Club Sessions

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

Weeton: AWS /CS - What's on in Weeton Sept - Dec 26

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

Weeton: Halloween Party in the Community Centre - 29th October 2026

There will be no prior ticket sale this year - Pay at the door.

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

Weeton: The Crofter 'Weeton Village Newsletter' October 2026

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

Northern Ireland: Veterans Newsletter - NI - Issue 7

The lates issue for the Veterans Newsletter - Northern Ireland can be found at the link below.

Veterans Newsletter - Northern Ireland - issue 7

The newsletter is full of useful information, along with details of upcoming events like Veterans Families Halloween Night, Breakfast clubs, Christmas lunch, Santa Experience and more.

Catterick: Could you help with the Poppy Appeal this year?

Could you spare an hour or two to support the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal this year. 

Everyone is welcome to join our fundraising team in Catterick and Scotch Corner.

Come along and have a chat with us at Tesco Superstore Cafe at 10am this Sunday 27th Sept and find out more.

No experience needed
Everyone welcome
Every hour makes a difference

You don’t have to commit to lots of time — even an hour helps.

Come along, say hello and see what it’s all about.

Please share and help us spread the word

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Benwell: Women's Wellness Project every Friday Morning

 Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Defence Children Services: Service Pupil Premium – register your child before 1 Oct 2026

Register Before 1st October

📢 If you're a Service parent and your child attends a school in England, make sure their school knows about your Service status before 1 October 2026.

Eligible schools can receive £360 per eligible Service pupil through the Service Pupil Premium (SPP), helping them provide additional support for Service children.

Find out more about eligibility and how you can help your school access this valuable funding:

https://dcs.school/2026/09/11/service-pupil-premium-2026-extra-funding-for-service-children-in-england/

Chester Zoo: Lanterns & Light Winter Experience - 13 Nov 26 - 3 Jan 27

Our 2026 Lanterns & Light winter experience promises to be the best yet.

Book now for the best prices and widest choice of dates and times, including the most popular slots during the festive season.

• New route through the zoo
• More interactive puppets than ever before
• Immersive light installations
• Festive food and drink
• Fairground rides for all ages
• Meet Father Christmas

With family-friendly evenings, selected adult-only nights and every visit helping to fund our vital conservation work, Lanterns and Light is a magical experience unlike any other.

Friday 13 November - Sunday 3 January - 4.30pm - 8pm
More dates than ever before, even more magic to discover.

Our most popular time slots will sell out quickly

Information provided by Weeton HIVE

North Wiltshire & Swindon: What's on in and around North Wiltshire & Swindon?

 

Please click the links below for a selection of event spaces and tourism websites to help you find things to do in and around North Wiltshire! This list may include seasonal and festive event pages.

Please note due to the closure of Colerne & Lyneham HIVE, this list will not be updated regularly so please bookmark this page!

Middlesbrough & Darlington: Free Trial Football classes for 18 months - 8 years

Come and try Little Kickers for FREE! 

Fun, football-based classes for children from 18 months right through to their 8th birthday.

A great way to build confidence, skills and friendships while having loads of fun! 

Message us today to book your FREE taster session.

Subject to class availability

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Catterick: Free Access Times for kids at Colburn Community Sports Centre

 Information provided by North HIVE Hub