Colchester: Garrison Community Action Plan - Wednesday 30th September 2026

 

Information Provided by EAST Hub

Chatham: Vivo Housing Surgery, Tuesday and Thursday mornings

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Blandford: Welfare/contact house short term use accommodation - New Update

Click on poster above to enlarge

The Welfare Team are introducing 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: 01258 481938
New SharePoint page: Contact House page.

Information provided by Bovington HIVE via BGSU Welfare team

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

Grantham: Housing Surgery

Next Housing Surgery at the HIVE Community Centre, Building 162, Thursday 17th September, 1030 - 1230. All welcome!

Information provided by Grantham HIVE

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

Corsham, Lyneham & Colerne: SFA Housing Clinic posters

Please note that Housing Clinics will resume in September

Information provided by Colerne & Lyneham HIVEs

Vale of Glamorgan: Discover your next step

 

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub

Catterick: Garrison Welfare/Contact House

 Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Scotland: Housing Options Scotland 'On Tour', venues across Scotland Wed 30th September - Wed 28th October

click on image to enlarge

Housing Options Scotland is going out on tour!

Come and talk to them about how the can help you with your housing needs and questions. They can answer questions on selling and buying, private or social renting, sheltered housing, housing for older adults, adapting your home, veterans housing and homelessness. 

You can also register to get further 1-to-1 support – remember, the service is free and independent.

There are two sessions each day and light refreshments will be provided.

Find out more and book your place 👉 https://housingoptionsscotland.org.uk/ontour/

Information provided by Leuchars HIVE

Blandford: Garrison housing drop in session - Wed 16th Sept

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

 

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 30 July 2026

Hundreds of New SFA Homes purchased at Imjin Barracks 
Hundreds of brand-new homes have been completed at Imjin Barracks in Gloucestershire, marking an important milestone in the MOD’s plans to improve housing for Service personnel and their families. 

DIO have purchased a total of 281 homes near Imjin Barracks, home to NATO’s Allied Rapid Reaction Corps. These homes were purchased by the DIO from existing developments built by Taylor Wimpey, Bloor Homes and Bovis Homes. 

Construction began in 2023 and was delivered in phases, allowing Service families to move in as soon as their homes were ready. Some families have now been enjoying their new homes for almost two years. 

These homes have been designed with sustainability in mind. Features include energy-saving solar panels, low-carbon heating systems, smart heating controls and electric vehicle charging points. These modern features are helping Service families reduce their energy use and, in some cases, lower their household bills. 

For further information, see the full article on Defence Homes here

Pre-move out and move-out appointment reminder
We know that moving can be a busy and sometimes stressful time, and that plans can change unexpectedly. If you are unable to attend your pre-move out or move out appointment, you can change your appointment on the e-1132 system.

Attending these appointments, or providing advance notice if you can't make them, helps ensure your move out process runs as smoothly as possible

Tune in to Housing Matters Podcast
Episode two of the brand-new podcast, Housing Matters is out now. The podcast lifts the lid on military housing and the issues that matter most to Service Personnel and their families.

Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and DIO Operations Manager South, Sebastian O’Hara, will be joined by special guests each week sharing their unique perspectives, experiences and expertise on all things military housing.

The first two episodes are now available. In the latest episode, we hear from John Reynolds, Army Military Housing Liaison Officer, and Stephanie Jervis from DIO Accommodation, who is also a military spouse and has lived in Service Family Accommodation for more than 18 years. Together, they share helpful guidance for families at every stage of military life, from moving home to simple ways to make a house feel like home.

You can watch episode one and two now.

So grab a cup of tea, press play and join us each week for Housing Matters.

Summer safety – travelling over the summer
With the school holidays upon us, many of our families will be thinking about going away, whether that's a staycation or holiday abroad. If you’ll be away from your home for a period of time, we recommend the following steps to keep your home safe: 

• Hot weather can cause burst pipes, so it’s recommended to turn your water off using your stopcock while you are away. The stopcock is the little tap or lever on pipes that are often found under your sink. 
• Turn off and unplug electricals like your TV and small kitchen appliances like kettles and microwaves to reduce bills and to reduce the risk of an electrical fire. 
• Ask a trusted friend or neighbour to look after your house keys so they can make checks on your home while you are away.

For more summer safety advice, visit Defence Homes.

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 Issue 40 Published

To read this issue online, and any back issues, please go to: Families First newsletter – Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can also sign up to receive Families First and other email updates from DIO Defence Homes, direct to your own inbox – please go to this link to subscribe: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

MOD’s Families Hub is now in its second year – have you used it yet?

 

https://discovermybenefits.mod.gov.uk/families/

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

FamCAS 2026: SFA Satisfaction Continues to Improve

The Tri-Service Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS) 2026 has been published today, providing valuable insight into the experiences of Service families and the issues that matter most to them, including housing.

This year’s results show a continued improvement in satisfaction among families living in SFA, building on the positive progress seen in recent years. Overall satisfaction has increased from 44% in 2023 to 53% in 2026, while levels of dissatisfaction have fallen over a number of key areas. Families have reported seeing the strongest improvements in maintenance and repairs, reflecting the continued work to improve the quality of homes and the support provided to Service families.

For further information, see the full article on Defence Homes here.

Keeping Communal Areas Clear

Residents are reminded not to leave rubbish, personal belongings, bicycles, Electric Powered Personal Vehicles (EPPVs), or any other items in communal corridors, stairways, landings, or access routes. Items left in these areas can create significant safety hazards, obstruct access and escape routes, and hinder emergency services during a fire or other emergency incident.

Where storage is required, residents should contact their local Housing Officer to check whether suitable storage facilities are available for items such as bicycles or Electric Powered Personal Vehicles.

Thank you for your support in helping to keep communal areas clear, safe, and accessible for all residents.

Hose Pipe Ban for areas across the UK

Following a period of intense summer heatwaves and record-breaking temperatures, water demand has increased significantly across parts of the UK. As a result, a number of water companies have introduced temporary hosepipe bans. Please check with your water provider to find out whether restrictions apply in your area.

Civilian Housing Options Briefings – 2026 Dates

To register for a Briefing, and provide your details please visit:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/information-and-guidance-on-civilian-housing

For more information on MoD Veterans Services support for Service Leavers and their families please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/help-and-support-for-service-leavers-and-their-families

Lichfield: DIO Podcast - volunteer family required - taking part in the DIO Housing Matters Podcast

 

DIO are looking for a family living in SFA for another episode of the DIO Housing Matters podcast who live in the Lichfield area.  Would you be interested in taking part in the podcast?  Get in touch with the Central HIVE on RC-Pers-HIVE-CentralHub-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk for the contact details in DIO.

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 08 July 2026

Welcome to Housing Matters Podcast

DIO are excited to launch Housing Matters, our new podcast created for military families. This podcast lifts the lid on military housing and the issues that matter most to Service Personnel and their families.

Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and DIO Operations Manager South, Sebastian O’Hara, will be joined by special guests each week sharing their unique perspectives, experiences and expertise on all things military housing.

In episode one, we take a closer look at what the Defence Housing Strategy really means for those living in SFA. Our guests are DIO Chief Operating Officer, David Brewer, who played a key role in the development of the Strategy, and Chris Keen, a military spouse who has lived in 11 different SFA properties. The discussion goes beyond the headlines to explore the investment, ambition and real-world impact behind the Strategy.

You can watch episode one on Defence Homes.

The five-part Housing Matters series will continue with a new episode released fortnightly on a Wednesday. Upcoming episodes include an honest conversation about damp and mould with our suppliers, a deeper look at the unique challenges military families face and how their housing works, the importance of building strong communities on patch and the new freedoms military families have to personalise their military house to feel like a home.

So grab a cup of tea, press play and join us each week for Housing Matters.

Pinnacle HomeHub & improved access to repairs & appointments