GamCare: World Cup & Gambling Support

GamCare has published new data (link) this week showing that the proportion of people contacting the National Gambling Helpline with online gambling concerns has reached its highest level in five years. They also saw an 11% rise in contacts following the last men's World Cup. 

This recent data from GamCare highlights a growing need for increased awareness and early support, especially during sporting tournaments.

If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, free and confidential support is available 24/7 through the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, via online chat or WhatsApp at www.gamcare.org.uk .

Project SALICE: Supporting the people and families behind the NATO mission

Project SALICE addresses practical obstacles faced by UK personnel and their families serving in NATO Command and Force structures – underpinning the Government’s 'NATO First' approach.

When a soldier, sailor or aviator is posted overseas for NATO, their family often goes with them. Their partner may have to give up their job, and their children may need new schools. Life must be rebuilt in a new country.

‘NATO First’ is not just a commitment made in policy documents, but the guiding principle for all our military plans and activities – and Project SALICE is here to address the challenges that can arise with an international move and to support families serving with NATO overseas.

Expanding on issues and recommendations covered in recent reviews of overseas Service life, the Project SALICE initiative is part of a broader commitment to make military life work, for those who serve – and for the families who serve alongside them. It builds on the Armed Forces Offer, which includes competitive pay, healthcare, accommodation support and funded childcare.

Lieutenant General Eldon Millar, the UK's Military Representative to NATO and the EU and Project SALICE sponsor, said:

“The UK is one of NATO's strongest members. Our Armed Forces work every day alongside allies to keep our country and Europe safe – with the right people, in the right places, at the right time.

“But keeping the best people in our Armed Forces doesn't depend only on good training and kit. It depends on Service life being a good life, for the whole family – and that is the purpose of Project SALICE.

“When our people know that their families are settled, their partners have every opportunity to work, and the practical side of overseas life is manageable, they can focus on their mission – being ready to deter, fight and win.”

The project covers: partner employment, education, accommodation, career management, policies and processes, and the Armed Forces Covenant.

Partner employment

Finding a job in another country isn't easy. Rules vary everywhere, and red tape often makes it extremely hard for partners of Service personnel to work at all.

Right now, particular attention is being focused on tackling these barriers to partner employment, and the Project SALICE team is tackling this in three ways:

BELGIUM: The Royal Palace in Brussels opens its doors to the public following a 2 year renovation

Following a two-year renovation project, the Royal Palace of Brussels will reopen its doors to the public!

The Palace is the administrative headquarters of the  Belgian monarchy and is where King Philip of Belgium maintains his office. 

Don't miss this opportunity to discover the architectural splendours of  this gorgeous building. The Palace will be open for 6 weeks this summer; check out the imposing grand staircase, the great gallery, the empire room and the throne room before enjoying the gorgeous gardens.

WHEN: Friday 3rd July to Sunday 16th August 2026

WHERE: The Royal Palace, Rue Brederode 16, 1000 Brussels

MORE INFORMATION: here

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: AI Boot Camp - from Zero to AI fluent in one morning! Tuesday 30 June 2026 09:00 - 12:00 CEST

The Inspire to Lead Team are pleased to share that an additional session with the BFBS Academy has been secured. Want to know all about Artificial Intelligence? This course is perfect for you.

The brilliant session will take place on Tuesday 30th June 0900hrs – 1200hrs (CEST) via MS Teams.

If you would like to take part, please contact Zak on Zakia.Yousaf100@mod.gov.uk to secure your space by 16th June.

Places are limited; don't delay, book today!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Make-a-Wish photo and GBR figures....

Congratulations and a big thank you to everyone who took part running, walking and volunteering at Make A Wish this weekend just gone. 

GBR A team completed 617 Laps
GBR B team completed 468 Laps
GBR C team completed 428 Laps

The GB Community made in total €5585.00 which will be donated to the MAW Foundation.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Gibraltar: Calentita Food Festival 19th & 20th June

Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS), on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, is delighted to confirm that Gibraltar’s much loved food festival ‘Calentita’ will make its return in 2026. Once again, the event will be produced by Word of Mouth.

This year’s event will take place on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th June at the Landport Ditch Car Park, marking the 17th Calentita since its debut in 2007.
GCS continues to work closely with Word of Mouth to deliver a vibrant, welcoming and memorable event for the community.

BELGIUM: British Forces Social Work Services Online Safety Newsletter

Please see the British Forces Social Works Services Online Safety Newsletter.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: Charity Horse Race Night - Friday 12th June 2026, 1800 - 2300 hrs @ CCCC

 

Please click the image to enlarge.

Please scan the QR code above or follow the link to book a table. 

BFB CHARITY HORSE RACE NIGHT on Friday 12 June 2026

You are cordially invited to attend the upcoming Charity Horse Race Night taking place on Fri 12 Jun 26 at the Chit Chat Community Centre.

The event is being held in support of our Hornbill School and Tree Tops. The evening will include horse racing games, refreshments, raffle prizes, food and music throughout the night.

Event details are as follows and also can be found at Flyer attached.

• Date: Fri 12 Jun 26
• Venue: Chit Chat Community Centre
• Gates Open: 1630 hrs
• Event Timings: 1800 – 2300 hrs
• Dress Code: Comfortable attire (Dress to impress / fancy dress encouraged)

Ticket information:

• Entry Ticket: $10 (Incldes Burger/chips and raffle draw)
• Use QR code to book VIP Table: $50 (Includes 8 seats and 1 beer tower)

VIP tables are also available at an additional $50, which includes a 1 x beer tower and it’s selling fast. As availability is now very limited, early booking is highly encouraged. Also, QR code can be used to book ticket from the flyer.

Tickets are available for purchase at the following locations:

• Tuker Lines: RLC S/S, QOGLR MT, RAO Office
• Medicina Lines: MPA Office, 667 Office
• Army Welfare Centre
• HIVE

Transport Information:

Transport will be available for personnel requiring it. Timings and location on pick up and drop off will be informed in due time.

Your support and participation would be greatly appreciated and will contribute towards a worthwhile cause for the community. Please feel free to share the information far and wide as possible; the more the merrier.

If you have any question/queries on the event please contact 

@ Gurung, Kalyan Sgt (BRUNEIGAR-ASD-DepSup-SNCO).

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE. 

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support - Movie Session Friday, 19th June 2026, 1500 hrs @ Chit Chat Community Centre

• Please bring your own snacks and refreshments.
• Bring a jumper or blanket, as it can get a bit chilly with the air conditioning.
• Parents, please remain available in case your child doesn't want to sit through the entire film. 

Please click the image to enlarge.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support - Families Club Saturday, 27th June 2026, 1030 - 1200 hrs @ Mumong Community Centre

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.