DIO Update: Publication of NAO Report on the repurchase of the Defence SFA Estate

The National Audit Office (NAO) has today published its report into the MOD’s buy-back of 36,000 homes.

The report confirms that bringing these homes back into public ownership has already stopped what could have been billions of pounds in future losses, while giving the MOD the control it needs to improve housing for families. The homes had originally been sold in 1996 and leased back for many years, at huge cost to taxpayers. Since completing the buy-back in early 2025, the MOD has been able to redirect money previously spent on rent into making homes better.

Whilst the report states that the deal to repurchase was the lowest cost option and handled effectively, it also highlights some challenges for the MOD and the need to establish the Defence Housing Service with the powers and autonomy it requires to deliver planned reform efficiently.

For the full set of NAO recommendations and details on the report’s impact, further information is available on Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can sign up to get Defence Homes updates direct to your inbox via this link: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

Gerrmany: Overseas Families Virtual Briefing

 

Germany: Water Conservation in SFA

 Water Conservation Reminder 💧

With the recent hot weather, we’d like to remind all personnel, families, and visitors that water is a valuable resource. Please use it responsibly.

Simple actions can make a big difference:

• Take shorter showers
• Only run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads
• Turn off taps when not in use
• Avoid watering lawns and gardens
• Refrain from topping up paddling pools and swimming pools unnecessarily

By working together and using water wisely, we can protect supplies, reduce demand, and ensure there’s enough water for everyone across the garrison.

Water is especially precious in Service Family Accommodation. Even small issues like dripping taps or running toilets can waste significant amounts if left unreported.

If you notice any leaks or faults, please report them immediately to the MITIE Helpdesk. Prompt reporting helps conserve water, reduce costs, and maintain a comfortable living environment for all.

Thank you for your support and cooperation in protecting this vital resource

Gibraltar: Wine Festival & Cardboard Boat Race this weekend

Now you have recovered from ''Gibraltar Rocks'' its time to start planning for next weekend!

11th Gibraltar Wine Festival

FRIDAY 3RD JULY 2026 from 5pm until late.
Wines from around the world
Live music and DJs
BBQ and food stalls
Ham & cheese stall
Street festival atmosphere

Cardboard Boat Race.

The race raises funds for Cancer Relief Gibraltar and the GBC Open Day and is great fun.

SATURDAY 4TH JULY from 10am
Boats made entirely from cardboard.
10am Boats assemble and are judged in Casemates Square.
Parade to Ocean Village before racing.
Junior and Senior races, plus a Kayak Tug-of-War.
Prizes for the fastest boats, best design, fancy dress and the famous "Titanic" sinking award.

BELGIUM: Free Museums Sunday this Sunday!

This Sunday is the first Sunday of the Month which can only mean one thing....

FREE Museums Sunday! Over 160 museums are available to visit at no charge whatsoever, so this is a perfect opportunity to explore everything from history and art to the weird and wonderful that makes Belgium a great place to live! So whether its rain or shine this weekend, enjoy your downtime and make the most of this brilliant cultural initiative.

Some popular museums still require you to book online to guarantee entry but entry will be free on the first Sunday of every month.

Check out the participating museums HERE. And do check their website for any reservation requirements.

Happy Exploring!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Britbar Community Opening, Friday 3rd July 2026

Don't miss the Britbar Community Opening this Friday! 

Come along after work, have a drink and decompress with friends. 

Uniform accepted, All Welcome.

See you there!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: NAAFI - Notice of Closure

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: BFB Spouses Coffee Morning and GSO Farewell & Welcome - Tuesday, 30th June 2026, 0900 - 1130 hrs @ CCCC

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Gibraltar Rocks Music Festival 27th June

GIBRALTAR NAVAL TRUST & SSAFA PRESENT

GIBRALTAR ROCKS

Saturday 27th June at DTC Astroturf from 1800 – Midnight as we celebrate Armed Forces Day with an evening of live music, great food, family fun and community spirit!

Live performances from:

• Mark Muscat

• Nikolai Celecia & The Coastliners

• The Hypnics

• DJ Nihal

Food & Refreshments:

• NAAFI Bar

• Pizza Plazza

• Top Dogs

• Rockabanana

• Candy Castle

• Here’s Johnny Ice Cream

Updated Family Activities:

- Photo Booth

- Creative Events – Children’s Activities

- Sparkle & Shine Face Painting

- Monique’s Face Painting

Don’t miss the football!

Panama v England on the big screen.

Bring your own deck chairs, camping chairs, blankets and picnic.

FREE ENTRY for the Armed Forces community, families and contractors.

Live Music ★ Great Food ★ Good Times ★ Family Fun

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.