BFBS to deliver live coverage of the 2026 Nepal Cup Final on 4 July

Image Credit: Gurkha Brigade Association

BFBS to deliver live coverage of the 2026 Nepal Cup Final on 4 July

On 4 July 2026, one of the most significant occasions in Gurkha sport returns as the Nepal Cup Final is broadcast live exclusively with BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service), bringing together tradition and pride in a showcase event at the heart of the military sporting calendar.

The hugely anticipated final will be streamed live on Forces News YouTube and on BFBS TV (serving personnel and families overseas only) ensuring those in active service, veterans, and military football followers across the globe can follow every moment of the action as it unfolds.

The Nepal Cup is widely regarded as one of the most important days in Gurkha sport, combining elite competition with cultural celebration and ceremonial tradition. The Queen’s Gurkha Signals have dominated recent years, lifting the trophy for the past two seasons, including a 2-0 victory over the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment in last year’s final. In 2024, the competition delivered one of its most memorable editions to date, featuring a five-goal thriller packed with outstanding goals and emotional reactions.

Kyle Dixon, BFBS Sport Reporter & Producer, said: “BFBS looks forward to sharing the livestreamed experience in this final, a standout occasion where tradition and sporting talent come together to unite the military community. Being able to capture the colour and intensity in real-time is at the heart of what BFBS Sport does.”

BFBS broadcasts more than 60 live military sporting events each year, continuing its mission to connect the global forces community through sport. This year’s final promises to deliver another iconic moment in military sporting history, with news coverage also available here: https://www.forcesnews.com/sport/football/nepal-cup-final-experience-amazing-gurkha-football-event-live-bfbs-sport

Don’t miss a moment, follow BFBS Forces News on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust: Help shape our 2027–2030 funding – your insight matters

AFCFT message to the Service community:

We are beginning our consultation to shape the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust’s funding approach for 2027–2030, and we would really value your insight as serving personnel. We have the approval of Gen Humphris (ACDS(People)) to reach out to you.

We want to understand the issues you and your families are experiencing, particularly during periods of high operational tempo, and where there may be gaps or emerging needs. Your lived experience is essential in helping us focus our funding on what would be most genuinely helpful.

We are very conscious of the pressures on your time. So we are asking if you are able to complete an online survey, anonymously, https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LWPQ6TY.

Our role is to complement what already exists by funding services and support that add practical value for you and your families.

If you are willing to share reflections, examples or priority areas we should be considering, your contribution would directly inform how future funding is shaped.

Thank you for everything you do, and for considering supporting this work.

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.

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.

Gibraltar: SSAFA A Weekend of Celebrations

This weekend is one of the highlights of Armed Forces Week, and we'd love you to be part of it.

Friday – SSAFA Gibraltar Flag Day

Come and visit us in town (ICC) where we'll be raising awareness of SSAFA Gibraltar and fundraising to support serving personnel, veterans and military families. You'll also find an incredible selection of handmade crafts lovingly created by members of our military community, together with delicious homemade cakes and sweet treats.

Saturday - Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day Parade (from 10:00)

Family Day at The Convent (Serving personnel & families)

Gibraltar Rocks Concert (free to attend and open to serving personnel, MOD Gibraltar Contractors and LECs).

We can't wait to celebrate with you.

BELGIUM: Directory of Boarding Schools 2026

Are you considering Boarding School for your child(ren)? Did you know that there is a directory that showcases all the Boarding Schools and Colleges that offer discounts and CEA funded places for HM Armed Forces Families?

You can find the Directory of Boarding Schools 2026 here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Bingo in the Britbar, Wednesday 1st July 2026, Eyes Down 19:30

Bingo is back next week! Come along and try your luck with the numbers.

WHEN: Wednesday 1st July 2026, Bar Open 19:00, Eyes Down 19:30
WHERE: The Britbar

The team will be taking a break in August but will be back the first Wednesday of September for more crazy calls!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUNEI: BFB Job Vacancies - Learning Support Assistant Level 2 (Casual) and Teacher Cover Supervisor (Casual)

 

British Forces Brunei Entitled BFB SPOUSES Job Vacancies

Hornbill School

1. Teacher Cover Supervisor (Casual)

Click here for Job Advert.

Please note: Only applicable for BFB SP or Civil Servant Spouses, NOT for external applicants.

Closing date: No closing date

Anyone who wishes to apply for this role, has any specific questions and to request an application form, kindly send an email to LPPO at BruneiGar-CivSec-LPPO-Group@mod.gov.uk

BRUNEI: Brunei Shell Recreation Club (BSRC) - Sunday Carboot Vol.4 *Open for Registration!* Sunday, 28th June 2026, 7 - 11 am @ BSRC Parking Lot

Military Co-Working Hubs: Upcoming Virtual Events

LINK TO MAIN EVENT PAGE: Book Club | Military Coworking

Virtual Co-working – every Tuesday AND Thursday morning
Time & Location
Tuesday's and Thursday's 09:30 – 12:00 BST
Virtual Coworking
For those who don't have access to a hub but love to cowork.
LINK: Virtual Coworking | Military Coworking

Craft & Chat - Tuesday evening dates
Time & Location
Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00
30.06.2026 / 21.07.2026 / 28.07.2026 - Virtual Event
Bring whatever craft you're working on and have a natter with us whilst you craft!
LINK: Craft & Chat | Military Coworking

Colouring break – every Wednesday lunch time
Time & Location
Wednesday's , 12:00 – 12:30 - Virtual Event
Break up your working week with 30 minutes of colouring in and chatting, help make sure you take a bit of time for you in your busy weeks!
LINK: Colouring Break | Military Coworking

Book Club - Tuesday evening dates
Time & Location
Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00
Next date: 14.07.2026 - Virtual Event
Break up your working week with 30 minutes of colouring in and chatting, help make sure you take a bit of time for you in your busy weeks!
LINK: Book Club | Military Coworking

Content planning Club - Wednesday morning dates
Time & Location
Tuesday 19:30 – 21:00
Next date: 29.07.2026 - Virtual Event
Break up your working week with 30 minutes of colouring in and chatting, help make sure you take a bit of time for you in your busy weeks!
LINK: Content Planning Club | Military Coworking

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

BRUNEI: New Defence Dads Network

All Services • All Ranks • All Grades • All Locations

Calling all dads, stepdads, single dads, adoptive dads, foster dads, non-custodial dads, granddads, and other male carers.

BRUNEI: BFB Swimathon - 24hrs Charity Event Friday, 26th - Saturday, 27th June 2026 @ Swimming Pool, Tuker Lines

BRITISH FORCES BRUNEI (BFB) SWIMATHON (24 HRS CHARITY) EVENT, 26 - 27 JUNE 2026

Swimathon is an annual charity event in which volunteers from across BFB participate in a continuous 24 hrs swimming challenge. The aim of this charity event is to raise funds for the Pusat Ehsan (Brunei Charity organisation for Special needs) and the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). Administrative Instruction and Risk Assessment will follow NLT end of May 26.

Please click the link HERE for donation.

BRUNEI: Bingo Night - Friday 26 June 2026, 1900 hrs @ Patio Bar

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: Teen Life in Brunei!

🌴 Living in Brunei: What Teens Wish They Knew

Moving to Brunei? Here's the real talk – straight from other teens who’ve been through it.

🏠 Military Life & Moving

• Life here moves fast – most families are posted for just 2-3 years. That means lots of hellos... and goodbyes.
• Friendships can feel a bit temporary. But you’ll also meet people from all over the world.
• Missing home is normal – the snacks, the weather, your mates. But it does get easier.
• Stay open to new people – you’re not the only one figuring it out.🏫 School

NEW VACANCY - GFIE-496 - Cabinet Office - Business Administrator - London, Glasgow, York, Newcastle, Manchester - Closing Date: 15 July 2026

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme (1 vacancy but multiple locations):

GFIE-496 – Cabinet Office Administrative Officer position in either London, Glasgow, York, Newcastle, Manchester - Closing Date: 15 July 2026

GFiE roles are available specifically to people who served in the Armed Forces, or be in your resettlement period and due to leave the Armed Forces within a reasonable time frame or a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed EoI Form (also see Guidance Notes) and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

For more information on the GFiE scheme please go to: A complete guide to GFiE – Veterans, Military Partners/Spouses and Service Leavers – Life Chances – Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) (blog.gov.uk)

DIO: Families First Issue 39 Published

To read this issue online, and any back issues, please go to: Families First newsletter – Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can also sign up to receive Families First and other email updates from DIO Defence Homes, direct to your own inbox – please go to this link to subscribe: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

SHAPE: Federal Police Watch Scheme this Summer

Going away this Summer? Don't forget that the SHAPE Federal Police offer a Watch Scheme.

For the extra peace of mind whilst you are away, SHAPE Federal Police can drive past your property and check all is well.

Simply complete a Police Watch Form (on the board in the Community Corridor) and hand it in to Building 247 at least days 5 days before your departure.

Happy Summer Holidays.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

A* for British Forces Cyprus schools: parents give top marks

Defence Children Services (DCS) schools and early years settings in Cyprus have received outstanding results in the 2026 Parent Satisfaction Survey.

Covering 1,148 pupils across early years, primary and secondary schools within British Forces Cyprus (BFC) military bases, families have reported very high levels of confidence and satisfaction across all areas of education and care.

The survey showed that:

100% of parents agreed their child feels safe at school
99% said they would recommend their child's school to another parent
97% said their child is happy at school and doing well
98% of parents with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) children said the school gives their child the support they need to succeed

School staff have been consistently praised for their warmth, dedication and professionalism, with many families highlighting the excellent support provided during deployments, transitions and the challenges faced by service families on posting.

BRUNEI: RGR Birthday Movie Night *Nakchhong* Special Screening in Brunei - Wednesday 01st and Thursday 02nd July 2026, 1830 - 2030 hrs @ CCCC

Please click the image to enlarge.

Background

The Nepali cinema “Nakchhong.” This is a mockumentary Cinema that will be premiered on the occasion of the RGR Birthday at CCCC. Kindly refer to the details provided in the flyer. “Two more items will be presented: an update on the future strategy of Gurkha history filmmaking, and the teaser trailer release of Sumnima.”

BRUNEI: BFBS Cinelink Screening - *CANCELLED* Michael Thursday, 25th June 2026, 7.00 pm @ Main Hall, CCCC

This is a free event. Bring snacks and something warm as it gets a little chilly in the cinema. See you there!

BRUNEI: PCMF - Monthly Health Promotion for July - Water Your First Step to Better Health

 

Water

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) bulk recruitment: 321 DWP Executive Officer roles in London and East England – closing date 7 Jul

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have 321 Executive Officer (EO) Work Coach vacancies across London and East England. These may be of interest to Service leavers, veterans and Service community members looking at Civil Service roles.

Civil Service Jobs link with further information on the roles available, and application details:

Universal Credit Job Centre - Work Coach - London And East England (Ref: 766) - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK

The vacancies close on 07/07/2026.

Easy Resettlement Magazine - Summer Issue Out Now

To read this issue and also back issues online, please go to: https://www.easyresettlement.com/magazine/backissues/

Please note that the Spring issue of Easy Resettlement has a 2-page article (see pages 10 and 11) on the support available from HIVE and RN Family & People Support.

Gibraltar: Three Day Music Festival, September 2026

Gibraltar Music Festival returns in September with ‘Summer Sessions’ featuring James Morrison, Melon Diesel, Rosario, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Billy Ocean and many more, plus local acts taking the stage too.

Tickets go on sale Wedsnesday 24th at 12.00 local time, through www.buytickets.gi

Gibraltar: Fireside Chat with Tom Farley 29th June

The Gibraltar Government Department of Justice Trade and Industry has issued a press release inviting young people to attend an event.

To register: www.startupgrind.com/gibraltar

One of Minister Feetham’s key priorities has been creating opportunities for young people. Great speakers can change the way young people view their future. Tom Farley is one of those speakers.

During his tenure at the NYSE, Tom oversaw the world’s largest stock exchange. Since then, he has remained at the forefront of financial innovation and digital assets, earning recognition as one of the most influential figures in global financial services.

This is a rare opportunity for young people to hear directly from someone who has operated at the highest levels of international business and finance and who continues to help shape the future of global markets.

VIRTUAL CHAT HV and Virtual New Parents Group

SSAFA's Virtual New Parent Group Sessions are open to all military families living in remote areas as a way to connect with other parents in similar situations. Although there will be a health visitor present to answer any questions, the floor is open to talk about whatever you want - from sleep, feeding or just general parental frustrations with no judgment or anything.

Our online CHAT HV sessions are open to all military parents across all time zones. These informal sessions cover a different topic each month to help guide and support you through the different stages of your parenting journey. These are a great way for you to meet other families from around the world and make connections, especially when living in a host country that has different practices with regards to new mum groups etc.

If anyone wants anymore information or to register for an online session, please either speak to your Health Visitor or email us on UKStratCom-DMS-DPHC-NYG-SSAFA@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Top Tips Number Two for Keeping Cool in this Heat

TOP TIPS IN THE HEAT WITH YOUR HISO:

Further to my previous top tip at the end of last month regarding keeping cool overnight by using a frozen hot water bottle, here is my Top Tip number 2:

Keep your skincare, body creams, sun cream, after sun and a water spray in the fridge; this is the perfect way to cool down at any time during the day.

NB if you are a retinol/retinal user, keep these out of the fridge.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE