Easter weekend break road trips from Motorfinity

Motorfinity blog article: The best Easter weekend break road trips to consider in 2026

Easter is the perfect time to swap chocolate-fuelled sofa days for a refreshing road trip adventure. With spring in full bloom, there’s no better moment to explore the UK’s most scenic spots. Plan your journey with Motorfinity and make the most of the open road. Here are five beautiful destinations to inspire your Easter escape.

https://www.motorfinity.uk/blog/best-easter-weekend-break-trips/

Introducing the Continuity of Education Allowance advisory helpdesk

A new team is ready to help you with questions about Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA).

Moving around for your work in the Armed Forces can make it hard to keep your children's education on track. This is where CEA comes in – helping your children stay settled in education, even when Service life means your family must move.

Civvy Street Magazine – Apr/May 2026 Issue Out Now

To read this issue online, please go to this link: Civvy Street

To find out more or to read back issues, please visit: https://civvystreetmagazine.co.uk/

Brunssum: Curios Thrift Shop Opening hours

 

An update for our thrifters!

Thrift shop opening hours for the coming week, commencing 30th March:

Wednesday 1st April 0900-1300

You can now find us in building 311, the “UK fleet and logistics section” click here for a map.

RE donations: Our new store is incredibly small and we have very little storage for overflow stock, so donations may be on pause for a while whilst we figure things out. Feel free to message with specific enquiries or alternative donation options.

You can find all the latest updates on The Curios Thrift Shop's Facebook page.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: ASGK Upcoming Events

Click here to see a larger version of the poster.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Supporting the Unsung Hero Business Start-Up Course – Catterick 14-16 Apr

 

To register of for more information, please go to www.x-forces.com/supporting-the-unsung-hero

Recruit for Spouses – Latest Newsletter with FREE support resources and upcoming events

The latest newsletter from Recruit for Spouses includes the following articles:
Free counselling support for military personnel, veterans, and families
Upcoming online events, such as Making Sense of Pensions: Support and Guidance for Military Families on 22 Apr, and Breaking Down Imposter Syndrome: Confidence Building Workshop on 7 May
Information and a survey invitation regarding the Foreign & Commonwealth Programme To view the newsletter in full, please go to: Recruit for Spouses Newsletter – Mar 26

Reading Force: Request your FREE books for Month of the Military Child

With Month of the Military Child just around the corner in April, Reading Force are encouraging families to sign up for their free books and resources, available to all Forces families, serving, veteran, reservist, or ex-serving (including those affected by bereavement, separation, or divorce), with children or grandchildren aged 0–18.

Find out more at: https://www.readingforce.org.uk/

DIO Families First Newsletter - Issue 36 Published

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available on the Defence Homes website.

Brunssum: Brunssum Lions Rugby Club Needs You!

 

BRUNSSUM LIONS RUGBY CLUB NEEDS YOU!

We welcome any level of experience, at ages over 18 years, from the full NATO community! Join us every Wednesday from 1600hrs at the NATO Sports Complex.

We play local teams around the Tri-Border region and plan for more wider matches taking place soon.

If you would like to support the team please visit our shop where you can purchase clothing and accessories that will directly support the Rugby Club: BLRFC Shop

Thank-you for your support and we look forward to seeing you at training!

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Foggy Fields Spring Market - 1st-2nd May 2026

 

Foggy Fields Spring Market brings together small businesses and makers from across the tri-border region—all under one roof, from handmade crafts to unique gifts and home décor

Where: The ICC
When: May 1–2
Hosted by: ASGK

Join us from May 1-2, 2026 for the Foggy Fields Spring Market, a beloved triborder tradition that blends excitement, community spirit, and heartfelt purpose. This highly anticipated event features talented vendors from across Europe, offering a spectacular array of handcrafted goods, unique artwork, gourmet treats, and more!

Brunssum: Visit the Donkey Sanctuary L'Oasis des Ânes in Belgium - 5th April 2026

Donkey Refuge, L'Oasis des Ânes is in Belgium, roughly a 40 minute drive from JFC Brunssum. The shelter is open on the first Sunday of the month from 2:00pm to 6:00pm

The sanctuary is open to the public and a guided tour of the refuge is organized every first Sunday of the month. This is when you can meet all the donkeys, explore the stables and pastures, and meet the volunteers. The oasis also has a small cafeteria where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a soft drink while chatting. A small shop sells all sorts of donkey-related items, such as documentation, stickers, t-shirts, keychains, and much more.

Brunssum: UPDATED An introduction to buying a house in the Netherlands Webinar

ABN AMRO & Welocate would like to invite you to the joined webinar “Buying a house in the Netherlands” by ABN AMRO & Welocate.

ABN AMRO and Welocate have valuable knowledge on this topic, which we would love to share with you.

During this webinar ABN AMRO and Welocate will work together. Welocate is specialized in real-estate services, the housing market and the buying process. ABN AMRO is your trusted partner for arranging your mortgage and they will explain everything to you about the mortgage process.

An introduction to buying a house in the Netherlands: The event will be held from 15:00 pm to 16:00 pm on the 16th April 2026.

Anchoring & Military Minds Spring Newsletter 2026

The Anchoring & Military Minds Spring Newsletter is now available. It’s packed with updates, upcoming events, family‑friendly activities, and information on the support available to serving personnel and military families.

Anchoring & Military Minds offers free, confidential support to anyone connected to the Armed Forces community. Whether it’s guidance around mental health, family wellbeing, navigating services, or simply needing a chat—please feel free to get in touch or pass their details on to someone who may benefit.

To read the newsletter in full, please CLICK HERE

To find out more, please visit https://www.solentmind.org.uk/support-for-you/our-services/military-minds/

Brunssum: Tri-Border Sailing Club - 2026 season open

 

The NATO Tri-Border Sailing Club (NTSC) is a recognised Club of the Allied Joint Force Command HQ Brunssum (JFCB) Morale and Welfare Activity.  

The club has a variety of boats for beginners and advanced sailors. One membership cost allows the unlimited use of boats throughout the season (April - October) at the sailing location in Roermond. Training is also available.

For more information please visit: https://www.sailnato.org/

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Spring Break at The Hub

 

Spring Break at The Hub

Join us for a week of fun starting April 1st! We've got something for everyone:

• Movies on the big screen
• Roller Skating Fun
• Delicious food at our Bistro

Bring the kids and make some memories!

Click here for more info.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Kids’ Swimming Lessons at JFC Brunssum

 

We’re thrilled to announce exclusive swimming lessons for NATO children at the JFC Brunssum pool! Whether your little ones are new to the water or ready to perfect their strokes, our program is designed to make every splash count.

Why Choose Us?
- Expert instructors focused on building water confidence and respect.
- Lessons follow the esteemed Dutch swimming ABC, ensuring a structured and effective learning experience.

From water safety basics to advanced techniques, we start lessons for children at the age of 4!

Have questions? We’re here for you! Email us at info@swimschool-aquazuyd.com or visit our website: swimschool-aquazuyd.com.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

SHAPE: Community Openings at the BritBar April to July 2026

Here are your Community BritBar Openings from April to July 2026.

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

Uniform accepted, All Welcome.

See you there!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Military Connected Children and Young People – Survey invitation: Our Health, Our Community, Our Voice

We need your help! We're asking children and young people from military families to answer some questions and we'd really love to hear from you!

What is it all about? We want to find out what life is like for children who have a parent or guardian in the military. We're asking questions about your home, your school, your friends, and how you feel. This helps us understand what's great about military life, and where young people might need more support.

What are Social Determinants of Health? These are just the things around you that can affect how healthy and happy you feel, like where you live, who you spend time with, whether you feel safe, and whether you can get help when you need it.

What will I need to do? You'll be asked to fill in an online survey. It's not a test and there are no right or wrong answers! It will take about 10–15 minutes and you can do it at home or at school.

Everything you say is private. Your name won't be shared with anyone.

Why should I do it?Because your opinion really matters!
To help other children in military families get better support
Hundreds of young people all over the UK are doing it too and you'll be part of something really important

Please use the relevant QR to your age group in the poster attached. Or follow the links below to the survey:

Age 8-11 – Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Age 12-15 – Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Age 16-18 - Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: New funding opens to help young service children get the best start in life

New funding opens to help young service children get the best start in life

Young children in serving armed forces families often experience change in their early years before they even start school.

Frequent moves, long periods of separation, and the pressures of service life can all affect a child’s sense of stability at a critical stage of development.

A new round of funding has now opened to help early years providers and local authorities respond to these challenges and give service children the strong, nurturing start they deserve.

Give the Gift of Headspace This Easter

Enrol in your Headspace benefit: work.headspace.com/britisharmy/member-enroll

Headspace Log In

BELGIUM: BFBS Technisat Set Top Box Retune. ACTION REQUIRED Tuesday 31 March 2026

Key information to help you stay connected to all your favourite shows, movies and sport on BFBS TV.

 

On Tuesday 31 March, local time 10:15, there will be a change to one of the BFBS satellites. If you’re using a Technisat set top box, you’ll need to retune your box on or after this date to continue watching.

For a Step-by-Step retuning guide, see www.bfbs.com/retune

 Please note: if you retune your box before 31 March, you will lose the service.

If you have any issues or queries, please email the BFBS Service Desk at satTVhelp@bfbs.com or call the retune helpline on +44 (0)1494 878 100.

Information provided SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Brocante de l'Espace Vert J-C Carpentier, Saturday 25 April 2026 06:00 - 17:00

Love a forage in a flea market or browse around a boot sale? Good News, the 16th edition of the Brocante de l'Espace Vert J-C Carpentier is coming up!

WHEN: Saturday 25 April 2026, 06:00-17:00
WHERE: Rue Henri Dunant

WHAT: Flea Market, Bar, Snack and Restroom available

Map below:

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Trips and Tours Itinerary is here

The SHAPE Trips and Tours Schedule is here!

Whether you are looking for a day trip or seeking a longer getaway, check out the itinerary available.

Click on the photo to enlarge or see here for more information about specific destination.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Meningitis Outbreak in Kent - useful information

There is a small outbreak of meningitis in Kent, but unless you had close or prolonged contact with people directly involved, your risk remains low.

Meningitis is a rare but serious infection that develops quickly, so as always call 112 if someone becomes suddenly unwell, especially with symptoms such as fever, a dislike of bright lights, neck stiffness, or a rash that does not fade under pressure. 

Following normal hygiene practices such as handwashing will help protect you. 

A Meningitis B vaccine is available for infants; adolescents and adults can be vaccinated privately but this will not be refunded. 

The UK clinic follows NHS England’s advice on vaccinations, which is being reviewed in light of the outbreak. 

For more information about meningitis, click here or request an information sheet from the Community Office.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Easter Quiz, Tuesday 7th April 2026 19:00

New Month, New Quiz! Join Kelly for the Easter Quiz Night at the BritBar! 

It is an egg-stra special families quiz this month full of fun, facts and friendly competition! Bar opens at 18:30 for quiz start at 19:00.

Bring your family along for an egg-citing evening of trivia.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Brunssum: Youth Spring Soccer Registration

Please click here to view a larger version of the above image.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

BELGIUM: FREE Music Concert, SHAPE East Chapel, Saturday 18th April 2026

If you are a fan of music, don't miss this fantastic afternoon of diverse tunes from the SHAPE Music Students and the SHAPE Community Choir. 

WHEN: Saturday 18th April 2026, 15:00 onwards
WHERE: East Chapel, SHAPE International Chapel
HOW MUCH: FREE

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: British Donations required for Make-A-Wish Hamper of Nations

Make-A-Wish 2026 is booked for June (along with some good weather for this year) and all nations are asked to put together a hamper for raffling off at the event. So we would be grateful for any 'British' donations please!

Hamper Items can include:

• Food and Drink (sealed and non-perishable)
• Games and Books
• British Memorabilia (Items from popular TV shows/movies etc.)
• Health and Beauty Items

If you have a Basket Hamper that you are willing to donate, this would also be very much appreciated.  

Last year the British Community raised the most out of all the nations!

If we have any duplicates or receive too many items, these will be passed on to the Britfete event. Please bring your donation into the CLO’s Office.

For further info please feel free to contact Anne.Myers108@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: the 1st SHAPE Sea Scouts are recruiting both children and adults!

The 1st SHAPE Sea Scouts are recruiting!

There are spaces for BEAVERS available now and both CUBS and SCOUTS will have spaces open soon.

The team are also recruiting adult volunteers to help support the Scouting movement here on SHAPE and a new Trustee is required too.

To sign your child up, please scan the QR code in the poster.

For further information on volunteering or trustee positions, please contact: 1stSHAPE@britishscoutingoverseas.org.uk    

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Brunssum: Visit Keukenhof - one of the world's largest flower gardens

Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is one of the world's largest flower gardens, situated in the municipality of Lisse, in the Netherlands. Keukenhof Park covers an area of 32 hectares and approximately 7 million flower bulbs are planted in the gardens annually.

Keukenhof is open from Thursday 19th March to Sunday 10th May from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM., including Sundays and holidays.

Keukenhof is about a 2h 40m drive from JFC Brunssum. You can walk, cycle or even take a boat trip through the flower fields there, there are also guided tours available. Whilst there you can visit the historic mill from 1892.

Children can enjoy themselves in the playground, viewing animals in the animal pasture and go on a scavenger hunt. Follow the stepping stones on the lake, meander in the maze and end the day eating poffertjes at the Miffy playground.

There are various restaurants around the park where you can enjoy a snack or hot meal at any time of the day. There is something for everyone: from meat and fish to vegetarian and vegan. For our smallest visitors, there is a children’s menu. You can also bring your own food and drinks into Keukenhof. There is a designated picnic area where there are plenty of benches where you can enjoy your packed lunch among the tulips.

Click here to book your tickets or find out more information.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Cycling in Zuid-Limburg

 

There is much to discover when you cycle through Zuid-Limburg. The network of cycling routes takes you through the forests, heaths and along the water. There may some challenging hills, but you will be rewarded with beautiful views all over the region.

For maps and useful information about popular routes, click here

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

BELGIUM: A Women's Health Symposium - Save The Date, Friday 29 May 2026

In celebration of Women's Health Month, we are pleased to announce the upcoming Women's Health Symposium. 

Please mark your calendars for this special event on Friday, 29th May 2026 which will be held at the SHAPE Healthcare Facility.

Further details regarding the symposium's agenda and location will be shared in the coming weeks.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Germany: Sakura in Germany Where You Can find The Cherry Blossom

If the pictures all over social media of  Japanese Cherry Blossoms and the Sakura festival have got you wishing you could enjoy them. You can find  places to see the blossoms here in Germany and did you know Dusseldorf is home to the largest Japanese community in Germany. 

Top Spots to See the Blooms

Germany has amazing cherry blossoms. Many were gifts from Japan after the Berlin Wall fell. Here are the best places for your family to visit:

Bonn: The Pink Tunnel

image Copyright printandpaint.de

Location: Heerstraße and Breite Straße in the Old Town.

The Vibe: This is the most famous spot in Europe. The trees grow over the road. They make a bright pink tunnel.

Best for: Photos and a city stroll. It is very popular, so go early!

BELGIUM: RFS presents Making Sense of Pensions online workshop, Tuesday 22nd April 2026 12:30-14:00 (GMT), Register Now

Recruit for Spouses is hosting an online workshop on Making Sense of Pensions.

WHEN: Tuesday 22nd April 2026, 12:30-14:00 (GMT)
WHERE: Online, from the comfort of your own home!

To register your interest, sign-up or make enquiries, please contact info@recruitforspouses.co.uk or see the RFS Portal


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE 

BELGIUM: Bus Strike Action planned next Week

 Reminder that Bus Strikes are planned next week...

The (hopefully) final week of strike action, affecting the De Lijn Bus Lines is planned for Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 April, the action will take place alternately in Flemish Brabant, Limburg and Antwerp Province from Tuesday to Thursday while on Friday staff will strike in both East and West Flanders.

Please plan your travels and TDY accordingly.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Brunssum: AI Skills for Military Partners hosted by BFBS Academy

AI Skills for Military Partners hosted by BFBS Academy.

This is a first‑of‑its‑kind AI skills course, created especially for military spouses and partners, and it is:

Completely FREE
Open to all levels – no prior AI or technical experience needed
Focused on practical, real‑life skills

Participants will explore what AI is, how it is already being used, and how these skills can support learning, personal development, and future opportunities - whatever their background or aspirations.

As part of the programme, the BFBS Academy team will also be delivering a series of free, live and interactive webinars, starting in March 2026.

These sessions will give spouses and partners the chance to learn directly from experts, ask questions, and build confidence in using AI in everyday life.

Details of how to register to take part can be found at:
https://sms.bfbs.com/course/ai-skills-for-military-partners

We would be incredibly grateful if you could share this opportunity as widely as possible, using all the methods and channels available to you. This is a fantastic chance to reach and empower a wide range of military partners and spouses across our communities.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Germany: BFBS Notice to Retune Set Top Boxes 31st Mar

On Tuesday 31 March, at 1115 local time, there will be a change to one of our satellites.  Anyone who uses a BFBS TV set top box will need to retune it to continue watching. 

Please do not retune before that time, as this would result in a loss of service.  BFBS TV Player streaming services will be unaffected. 

For full details and a step-by-step video go to bfbs.com/retune, call +44 (0)1494 878100, or contact our local BFBS studios.

Money Saving Central: Places Kids Eat Free (or for £1) Easter.

Here's our full list of Kids Eat Free (or for £1) restaurants this Easter: www.moneysavingcentral.co.uk/kids-eat-free

BFBS Box update

Key information to help you stay connected to all your favourite shows, movies and sport on BFBS TV.

On Tuesday 31 March, local time 1215, there will be a change to one of our satellites. If you’re using a Technisat set top box, you’ll need to retune your box on or after this date to continue watching.

Please note: you won’t be able to retune your box before 31 March.

 If you have any issues or queries, please visit your local BFBS office for assistance.

Recruit for Spouses: New RFS opportunities this April for military spouses and partners

Recruit for Spouses has released its latest upcoming events, career programmes and support available throughout April.

If you’re looking for employment, training, or support with your next step, there are a range of opportunities to explore.  

To register your interest, sign in to the RFS Portal:   

https://portal.recruitforspouses.co.uk/users/sign_in  

Or email: info@recruitforspouses.co.uk  

Transformative new childcare support could save Armed Forces families up to £6,000 a year

(images UK MOD Crown Copyright 2024)

A new Ministry of Defence scheme to transform support for Armed Forces families with young children will be rolled out across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland from September 2026, the Defence Secretary has announced on 20 March 2026.

This major boost could save eligible Armed Forces families up to £6,000 per year for each child, depending on where you are in the UK.

Defence is committed to supporting Armed Forces families, wherever you live and work. This scheme will help with the cost of living and navigating life as a family in the Armed Forces, recognising the demands placed on Service personnel and the critical roles families play in support of them.

Hundreds of families in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to be eligible for the scheme.

Defence UK Nursery Authority (UKNA) – launches Sept 2026

To access any document links, please view the document online here.

Further information will follow in due course, but please contact HIVE with any queries in the meantime.

Germany: A Family Adventure in Sauerland: A Fun Filled Weekend

Willingen and Winterburg are not only great for winter sports . They offer family fun all year round. Most families book their spring getaway weeks in advance. Secure your spot now to avoid the rush. This itinerary balances excitement for the kids with relaxation for you.

© Skywalk Willingen - Blick auf den Skywalk, die Mühlenkopfschanze und den Ort Willingen

Saturday: Heights and Lights in Willingen

Morning (10:00 AM): Skywalk Willingen. Walk the world’s longest suspension bridge. It’s safe, thrilling, and offers the best photos of the trip.Families rate this a top-tier experience.

Lunch (1:00 PM): Ettelsberg Hütte. Take the cable car up. Enjoy traditional German pancakes while the kids explore the mountain-top playground.

Afternoon (3:00 PM): Mühlenkopfschanze. Visit the world’s largest ski jump. The glass elevator ride is a hit with children.

Evening (6:00 PM): Dinner at Willinger Brauhaus. A lively atmosphere where kids are welcome. Try the local "Willingen" soft drinks.