June 26, 2026

Valuing Forces Families Overseas: Focus Group Invitation


RAND Europe has been commissioned by the Army Families Federation, in partnership with the RAF Families Federation and the Naval Families Federation, to conduct a study exploring the experiences of UK military families throughout the overseas postings cycle. As part of this research, RAND Europe is holding focus groups with military families who have experience of overseas postings, including preparing for, undertaking, and returning from an assignment overseas. These discussions aim to provide an improved and up-to-date understanding of families lived experiences and the challenges they face at different stages of the overseas postings cycle.

This research will contribute to the Valuing Forces Families Overseas (VFFO) programme, funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, which seeks to uncover hidden needs within the Armed Forces community and identify where additional support may be most needed.

If you:
  • Are an ex-serving member of the Regular or Reserve UK Armed Forces
  • Are a partner of a serving or ex-serving member of the Regular or Reserve UK Armed Forces,
AND if you, within the last 3 years:
  • Considered going on an overseas posting (even if you ended up not going), or
  • Went on an accompanied posting overseas, or
  • Were separated from your partner due to an unaccompanied posting
And are interested in helping researchers to understand how military families can have positive experiences of overseas postings.

Please follow the link below and Expression of Interest to take part in an online focus group to talk about your experience of the overseas postings cycle.

Link: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/G0MAAF/

If you have any questions, please contact the RAND Europe research team via email at VFFO_Research@randeurope.org

RAND Europe is a not-for-profit research institute whose aim is to improve policy through evidence-based research and analysis.

June 25, 2026

Hereford: Job Vacancy - Office Manager/ Finance Assistant

 

Office Manager & Finance Assistant (Full Time for up to 12 months’ maternity cover from mid-August 2026)

We are a small company based in Hereford (only 10 of us here in the UK, all in Hereford, as part of an international defence company across Europe, USA and Australia) but 75% of workforce are either veterans or spouses of veterans so take our Armed Forces Covenant commitments seriously.


We are seeking a proactive and adaptable Office Manager and Finance Assistant to provide 12 months’ maternity cover for our Hereford-based team. Precision Technic Defence (PTD) Ltd works closely with UK defence and security customers, including the MOD and UK Police, to identify, shape and deliver solutions that address current capability gaps, working with global suppliers and UK-based stakeholders.

This varied role supports the day-to-day running of the business and requires a flexible, can-do approach as part of an integrated project team. It also involves regular communication with Group HQ in Denmark and with suppliers providing business services and utilities.

Shropshire - Serving Families: On the Move project



Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub

Tidworth: AWS Summer Cinema - Monday 3rd August and Monday 10th August

  

Information provided by South West HIVE Hub

Grantham: Grantham Prep International School - A world of learning begins here


15% discounts for Military families www.granthamprep.co.uk

Information provided by Grantham HIVE

MOD Veterans Services: New online form now available for referrals and self-referrals


A new online form is now available, making it easier and quicker to refer to Veterans Services, who provide information, guidance and welfare support to those who have left or are transitioning out of the Armed Forces.

The form offers a simple and secure way for veterans, serving personnel, and those supporting them to request assistance and supporting guidance. It removes the need to download and complete paper or PDF forms, allowing referrals to be submitted directly to the Veterans Services team who will build and manage your case.

Most referrals can be completed in just a few minutes if you have the relevant information to hand. This may include contact details for you or the person being referred, such as a telephone number, address, Service number, National Insurance number, and date of birth. If you have not served, you can still make a referral – just provide the details of the serving person or veteran you are supporting.

To find out more about the new online referral/self-referral process, please go to: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/make-a-referral-to-veterans-services

Wiltshire: Latest hot weather updates from Wiltshire Council

 

Please click here to read more tips and information from Wiltshire Council

Information provided by Colerne & Lyneham HIVEs

Lyneham: Latest timetable for the regular groups at Lyneham Village Hall

 

Lyneham Village Hall - Facebook page

Lyneham & Bradenstoke Parish Council website - Lyneham Village Hall

Information provided by Lyneham HIVE

Northern Ireland: Education Authority Northern Ireland (EANI) SEND Support Services


EANI have introduced a way for you to contact their SEND Support Services. 
There is now one number to call to access support: 028 9031 7777

Information provided by HIVE NI

London: Home Start London



Home Start are there for parents when they need it the most because childhood can’t wait

All parents struggle at one time or another and Home-Start is ready to support London families through their toughest times.

Home-Start trains and supports volunteers to work alongside parents in their own home giving compassionate and confidential support, tailored to each family. Home-Start London is a consortium of 12 local Home-Starts operating across 24 London boroughs. 

Click HERE for more information.

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub