BFBS Returns as Official Broadcast Partner for the 2026 Inter Services Rugby Championship

Credit: Alligin Photography

BFBS Returns as Official Broadcast Partner for the 2026 Inter Services Rugby Championship

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) is proud to return as the official broadcast partner for the 2026 Inter Services Rugby Championship, delivering comprehensive coverage of both the men’s and women’s competitions this spring.

Celebrating one of the most historic rivalries in military sport, the annual event brings together the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force in a series of fiercely contested fixtures showcasing elite sport, service pride, and unrivalled atmosphere. BFBS will provide exclusive livestreamed coverage of all six games, ensuring audiences around the world can follow every moment of the action.

FamCAS 2026: Last Chance to enter - Survey closes 15 Apr - Daily life as an Armed Forces family - What’s it like?

Daily life as an Armed Forces family: What’s it like?

Credit image above: UK MOD © Crown copyright

If you’re married to – or in a civil partnership with – a member of the Regular Armed Forces, you may have been invited to take part in the Ministry of Defence’s Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS).

Here, you can share your views and experiences about daily life as part of an Armed Forces family, including what you like and any challenges.

Your feedback helps Defence’s policy makers understand how initiatives, support and policies can better meet your family’s needs. Whether that’s with healthcare, housing, training, employment, or childcare and education.

Can I take the survey?

Each year, a random, representative sample of civil partners and spouses of Tri-Service Regular serving personal are invited to complete the survey.

To check if you can take the survey, visit the online tool. To use the tool:

· Enter your partner’s Service number. This is needed for security reasons only; all responses are anonymous and confidential.

· If invited, the tool will take you to the survey. If you aren’t, you can still share some thoughts.

This survey takes around 30 minutes to complete and closes on Wednesday 15 April 2026.
Making life better for Armed Forces families

Armed Forces families are the cornerstone of the Armed Forces. By supporting serving personnel, you play a vital role in Defence’s operational effectiveness. In return, it’s important that you feel heard, supported and know that Defence remains committed to enhancing your experiences.

Recent progress

Defence Infographic – Primary School Offer Day information and support for Service families

To support Service families with further information on Primary School place offers, Defence has provided this infographic. A PDF version with accessible hyperlinks is at this LINK, or please see links below:

Starting Reception website

General Gov.uk guidance on school admissions and appeals

Defence Children Services (DCS)

Education Advisory Team email address: RC-DCS-HQ-EAT@mod.gov.uk

Defence’s Wraparound Childcare (WAC) scheme

Give Us Time – Welfare breaks for late April, May, and June

Please see our newest Spring update, highlighting our breaks for late April, May, and June. All the breaks are available on the website, except for the Kidlandlee breaks which can only be booked via email

• All our breaks and days out are donated, so are usually off peak. We are unable to request alternative dates or locations from those donated
• Bookings are made on a first come first served basis
• Families must be signed up on our website before making a booking

We will be adding ‘Give Us A Moment’ days out shortly for the summer, and our September and October breaks will be added onto the website in the summer

www.giveustime.org.uk

April’s offers from Motorfinity

Have a look at this month’s offer sheets including some of our latest models, top discounts, and new models – all available with the new registration plate!

Exclusive webinar invitation - Financial Inclusion in the Public Sector, by Serve + Protect Credit Union

Register for free today!

We are pleased to invite you to an exclusive webinar on Tuesday 28th April 2026 at 13:00

Discover the key insights from our 2026 Financial Resilience Survey, which generated responses from 7,647 Serve and Protect members from January to February 2026.

In this webinar we break down the findings of the survey to uncover the common financial challenges facing public sector employees in 2026. From difficulty accessing responsible financial products, to preparing and coping with financial emergencies, you will be equipped with the knowledge of what is impacting your people today.

Don't miss this opportunity to better understand and support your colleagues.

Read the full Financial Resilience Report 2026

April is the Month of the Military Child – get involved!

April is the Month of the Military Child – an annual initiative to recognise and celebrate the remarkable children and young people in our Armed Forces community.

This campaign is led by the Education Policy Team within the Defence Children Services (DCS), who are responsible for the equality of delivery, support and outcomes of education and safeguarding for Service children and MOD entitled civilians in accompanied postings overseas.

The new Head of the Defence Children Services said:

"Our Service children are a valuable part of our Armed Forces community. Giving them a stable, supportive environment isn't just the right thing to do – it's critical to Defence’s operational effectiveness. When families are in good hands, personnel can serve at their best.

“Service children continue to prove their resilience and adaptability. Whether it’s moving schools, relocating, or managing time apart from a parent on deployment.

“As global uncertainty rises, so do the demands on serving personnel, which results in a commensurate impact on Service families, especially children. This is evidenced by the recent events in RAF Akrotiri, where although schools and early years settings have experienced some disruption, staff, families, and Service children have demonstrated incredible resilience, strength, bravery, and versatility.

“Innovating their approach, staff continue to provide safe education and care elsewhere on the Island. Meeting the needs of our Service children is a key component of Defence’s offer and must recognise their unique circumstances.”

Get involved

Led by DCS’ Education Policy Team, with support from charities, schools, and fellow MOD departments, this initiative raises awareness of the unique experiences and challenges faced by children of Armed Forces personnel around the world. It is also a time to thank them and highlight their positive impact in schools, society and our Armed Forces community.

Show your support by getting involved in the many activities taking place this month. Here are some simple, meaningful ways that you and your family can get involved:

• Discover activities and events at local military bases and schools by contacting your local HIVE (Royal Navy Family and People Support, Army HIVE, RAF HIVE) or Families Federation (Navy, Army, RAF). Charities and other organisations are also holding events.
• Spread the word about the Month of the Military Child with other Service families and your wider community. Use the following hashtags on social media: #MotMC and #MonthoftheMilitaryChild.
• To help your child’s school recognise and raise awareness of Service children, share information, ideas and resources with them.
• Wear purple on Friday 24 April 2026: Wearing purple is a simple but powerful way to show solidarity with Service children. Remember to use the hashtag and encourage your colleagues to join in, too. You can even turn it into a purple-themed bake sale or activity.
• Why not encourage your child to enter Never Such Innocence’s art and poetry competition? This year’s competition closes on 1 May 2026, and the theme is: Winds of Change.

For information on how schools and settings are marking this month, and to explore ideas and activities, visit the DCS’ website.

Serve and Protect Credit Union Cash ISA 2026/27 - Guaranteed Tax-Free Return of 3.85%

Serve and Protect Fixed Cash ISA | Guaranteed Tax-Free Return of 3.85%

Serve and Protect Credit Union have launched a Fixed Cash ISA for the 2026/27 tax year giving employees within the Police, Prison, Military, Fire and Health Services the opportunity to earn a guaranteed tax-free return of 3.85% AER (Annual Equivalent Rate).

• Minimum effort, maximum return: Start depositing from as little as £5 and up to a maximum of £20,000 for the 2026/27 tax year.
• Attractive returns: Enjoy a guaranteed tax-free return of 3.85% AER, allowing you to earn more from your savings effortlessly.
• Safety assured: Rest easy knowing your savings are protected up to £120,000 by the FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme).

For people, not profit.

Serve and Protect Credit Union prides itself on being more than just a financial institution. As a not-for-profit, by opening an account, you can make a real impact to the lives of those who serve and protect our nation. Your support provides crucial funds to help fellow colleagues seeking affordable credit.

For more information or to apply please visit: Serve and Protect | Tax-Free Savings with a Fixed Cash ISA

MoneyHelper free webinar: Retirement planning for Gen-Z, Wed 20th May at 2pm

To register:

https://shorturl.at/MJr7C

MoneyHelper: Understanding debt and getting the help you need

A tough topic, but such a vital one to talk about, Debt Advice. 

Across the UK there are hundreds of thousands of people struggling with the burden of problem debt. Debt can be a taboo topic, difficult to talk to family or friends about, and many people are left feeling isolated and anxious, and many of them simply do not know where or how to reach out for help and support. This month’s article outlines some of the demographics around debt, signs to look out for and where to go for help. Please, do not suffer in silence, there is free and impartial, fully regulated support available. Let MoneyHelper support you on a journey a debt free future and more positive financial future.

For more Information please CLICK HERE

Forces Cars Direct: April Car Offers – Save on Your Next Vehicle

It’s April, and there are some fantastic offers available to you this month, including the brand new Jaecoo 8 with a saving of £9,619 and the Nissan Juke with a saving of £5,251.

Our team is on hand to help you make the best decision when choosing your next new car and to guide you through the exclusive savings available.

To view all of this month’s offers, please visit the link below: https://www.forcescarsdirect.com/special-offers/monthly-offers

Forces Employment Charity: Spring into new opportunities

In this edition, we’ve got plenty to help you explore what’s next, whether you’re curious about getting into tech, thinking about a fresh start in manufacturing or logistics, or simply want to stay connected with what’s happening across our community. We’re also proud to share that nominations are open for this year’s Heropreneurs awards, celebrating the exceptional talent, ambition, and impact of the UK’s Armed Forces entrepreneurs. Read on and book your next career-changing event...

April’s Quest magazine is out now

To read this edition online, or any back copies, please go to: Quest Magazine - Armed Forces Resettlement since 1999.

Ministry of Defence’s survey for Armed Forces families closes soon…

Ministry of Defence’s survey for Armed Forces families closes soon…

The Ministry of Defence’s Families Continuous Attitude Survey closes in two weeks, on 15 April 2026. Don’t miss the chance to have your say on life as an Armed Forces family.

Armed Forces families make extraordinary sacrifices and contributions to support serving personnel and keep Britain safe. Your dedication and support underpin the operational effectiveness of the UK Armed Forces.

At a time of rising global uncertainty, your support has never been more important. With increasing demands on serving personnel and families, it is essential that the Armed Forces community feels safe and supported at home.

The Ministry of Defence’s Families Continuous Attitude Survey is an opportunity to share thoughts and shape policies to enhance your family’s experiences, as valued members of the Armed forces community.

Hounds for Heroes: Latest Newsletters

Click image to enlarge.

Hounds for Heroes latest newsletters are now available:

Winter edition

Autumn 2025 edition

The Hounds for Heroes mission is to provide specially trained assistance dogs to injured or disabled service personnel and veterans, helping them to regain independence, confidence, and companionship.

To find out more about Hounds for Heroes please go to: Hounds for Heroes Assistance Dogs | Hounds for Heroes

Wifinity Armed Forces Offers: eSIM for travel and deployment, and SFA Forces Fibre

The current MOD offers from Wifinity include:

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

Ultrafast broadband flexible for families into SFA homes - Wifinity Forces Fibre

• Monthly rolling contracts available
• Cheaper than major providers such as BT
• Faster installation times than the UK average
• 26% faster speeds than the UK average
• Currently available at Kendrew, Chicksands, Lyneham, Marham and Aldershot
• Further SFA sites being rolled out in 2026
• Get your first 2 months free when sign up for 12-month plan

Celebrating 30 Years of Army Welfare Service

On 01 April 2026, the Army Welfare Service (AWS) marked its 30th anniversary - three decades of dedicated support to soldiers, their families, and the wider Armed Forces community in the UK and overseas. Since its re‑rolling in 1996, AWS has grown into a dynamic organisation that unites Specialist Welfare, Community Support, and Business Support, bringing together civil servants and Adjutant General’s Corps (AGC) personnel under one mission: delivering exceptional welfare support to the Army family.

The AWS has its origins in the Families Housing and Welfare Service (FHWS), established in 1977 within the AGC. The first male SNCOs joined FHWS in 1993, and the service became the AWS on 1 April 1996. The introduction of civilian Army Welfare Workers (AWWs) in 1999 strengthened the civil–military partnership, while the 2001/02 Welfare Review shaped the modern structure recognised today.

Department for Work & Pensions Update

Do you know your State Pension age?

DWP is running a campaign to encourage everyone to check their State Pension age on GOV.UK.

Between April 2026 and March 2028, the State Pension age will gradually rise from 66 to 67, affecting those born on or after 6 April 1960.

Use the free State Pension age calculator on GOV.UK  to find your State Pension age — you just need your date of birth. You can also use the Check your State Pension forecast tool to see how much you might get and if you can increase it, for example, by filling any gaps in your record.

Remember, your State Pension doesn't start automatically. The Pension Service will write to you around four months before you reach State Pension age to invite you to apply.

*HIVE note* For Service community spouses and partners with NI gaps due to overseas postings, please visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-insurance-credits-for-partners-of-armed-forces-personnel-overseas. There is information on NI credits that may apply, and an online form to complete.

Introducing Tax Confident

HMRC has launched ‘Tax Confident’ – a new website designed to help customers fill their tax knowledge gaps.

The website offers simple, easy to understand information on tax basics through engaging formats. Current resources are aimed at pensioners and small business owners, but there's something useful for everyone.

GOV.UK remains the place for detailed guidance but Tax Confident helps customers feel ready to take that next step. Find out more at Tax Confident.

BFBS Esports: The BFBS Pro League Returns featuring Rocket League, F1 25, League of Legends, New Activations, and a Grand Final in London

The UK Armed Forces’ flagship esports competition is back.

BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) has announced the return of the BFBS Pro League, launching Season Two, today, 2 April, following the success of last year’s historic inaugural competition for the UK Armed Forces community.

Following the breakthrough first season that attracted more than 700 players from across the British Armed Forces community, the BFBS Pro League returns with an expanded esports line-up, adding F1 25 and League of Legends for 2026. This year’s Grand Final will be featuring Rocket League with players battling through a series of tournaments before the action culminates on Sunday 27 September at the Royal Air Force Museum, London.

Dual Accommodation Waiver – Information update on changes effective from 1 Apr 26

The Defence Accommodation Policy team have provided updated information on the Dual Accommodation Waiver (DAW) in line with changes that took effect from 1 Apr 2026.

Dual Accommodation Waiver applies to Service Personnel who live in SLA during the week as their Residence at Work Address and can also evidence a Privately Maintained Property, family home or formally retained Service Family Accommodation (SFA) in the UK.

The policy changes relate to timelines for claims, including backdating. This new information is available within the following Sway: Dual Accommodation Waiver Explained (Previously Extended SLA Waiver)

JSP references and key points of contact are included in the Sway for further enquiries, and HIVE can also be contacted for further information.