HM Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) - Specialist Prison Industries (SPI) : Engineering Machining - Leyland - Closing Date: 27 October 2026

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme (2 vacancies in total):

GFIE 509 - Specialist Prison Industries (SPI) : Engineering Machining – Leyland (HMP Wymott)

Closing Date: 27th October 2026

🎯 What You’ll Be Doing

👨‍🏫 📚 🛠Teaching & Supervising: Teach, instruct, and supervise prisoners in an engineering machining workshop to help them attain nationally recognised qualifications and improve their employment prospects upon release.

⚙ 📋 🏭Workshop Management: Set work schedules, manage production targets and quality standards, log attendance, approve wages/hours, and maintain machinery and tool checks.

Safety & Security: Maintain security and discipline, conduct metal detector scans or rub-down searches, complete safety/incident reports (such as ACCT, VRIR, and SIRs), and enforce health and safety standards (including COSHH).

🔒 🛡 🚨Prisoner Development: Induct prisoners, tailor training to individual needs, and contribute to progress reports, parole, and sentence planning.

Job description

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)

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) scheme: DWP Learning Planner Officer, Sheffield - Closing Date: 25 October 2026

The following vacancies are now open for applications under the GFiE Scheme (2 vacancies in total):

GFIE-500 – DWP Learning Planner Officer - Sheffield

Closing Date: 25 October 2026

Job description

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)

Brunssum: Prepare Your Car for Winter 2026

 

Winter tyres are not mandatory in the Netherlands or Belgium, however, when driving in Germany, you are obliged to have winter tyres on your car or camper in winter conditions.

What are 'winter weather conditions'?
1. black ice
2. slippery conditions due to snow or slush
3. slippery conditions caused by ice or frost

There is no fixed time period in which you are obliged to drive with winter tyres in Germany, but it is your responsibility to have the right tyres for the right weather conditions. The general rule is ‘von O bis O’ (from October to Easter), fitting winter tyres from the beginning of October to the end of April.

Parkdean last minute breaks available.

FAO Regular Army personnel.


HQ Regional Command has secured additional 3 x fully funded 7-night Parkdean Resort family breaks that require urgent allocation.
To register your interest, complete this form by clicking the below link or scanning the below QR code. This expression of interest will close at 12:00 on Thu 1 Oct 26:
Funded Breaks for Regular Army Personnel (Parkdean Resorts) 16 - 23 Oct 26 – Fill in form
• Open to all Regular Army personnel
• 7 nights accommodation from Fri 16 to Fri 23 Oct 26
• 3-bedroom accommodation (up to 6 people)
• Completely free of charge
• 30% discount voucher for on-site food and beverages
• Applicants considered on a case-by-case basis
Important: Personnel may only register their interest if they:
• Are available to attend for the full duration of the break
• Offer justification as to why they should be considered
• Have obtained authorisation from their Chain of Command
Queries: RC-Pers-WelSpt-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk


Funded Family Breaks for Regular Army Personnel (Parkdean Resorts) 16 - 23 Oct 26

*Fixed interest rate now increased*

Serve and Protect Credit Union: Fixed Saver 14 - Guaranteed Return of 4.25 % AER. 

Serve and Protect Credit Union are pleased to announce the latest fixed-rate savings account is now available paying a guaranteed return of 4% AER.

4. 5 % AER fixed for 12 months (starting 1st November 2026)

Balances between £1,000-£10,000 

No fees or charges

Available until 28th October 2026 

This is simply for your awareness—it’s not a recommendation. Please take a look and decide if it’s right for you. The account is available to apply for between 1st to 28th October 2026 and you need to become a member first – which is free. You can learn more here: https://serveandprotectcu.co.uk/save/fixed-saver/

Terms and eligibility criteria apply.

BRUNEI: DIO(B) - Water Temperature Monitoring & Chlorine Testing and Scheduled Work for October

DIO(B) SCHEDULED WATER TEMPERATURE MONITORING AND CHLORINE TESTING

1. In Order to Comply with the UK standard, DIO contractor Marsee will be carrying out the scope of works as shown below:

a. Check temperature reading of hot and cold water at the very sentinel point.
b. Check chlorine level in water using site test kit.
c. Visual check and small adjustment of water heater.
d. To record water analysis
e. Duration of work will take 10mins to 15mins.

DIO(B) SCHEDULED WATER TEMPERATURE MONITORING AND CHLORINE TESTING

1. In Order to Comply with the UK standard, DIO contractor Marsee will be carrying out the scope of works as shown below:

a. Check temperature reading of hot and cold water at the very sentinel point.
b. Check chlorine level in water using site test kit.
c. Visual check and small adjustment of water heater.
d. To record water analysis
e. Duration of work will take 10mins to 15mins.

BRUNEI: BFB New Arrivals Induction Brief - *Next Date* Thursday, 3rd December 2026, 0900 - 1230 hrs @ Main Hall, Chit Chat Community Centre

For all the New Arrivals in British Forces Brunei, please attend the Mandatory Induction Brief on Thursday, 3rd December 2026 at Chit Chat Community Centre.

The session will run from 0900 - 1230 hrs. (be seated by 0855 hrs)

Tea and coffee will be provided.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

NHS STOPTOBER - let's quit together

Easy Resettlement Magazine: Autumn edition out now

Have you read the Autumn issue of Easy Resettlement magazine yet?

In this issue there is information about employment events for service leavers, enabling you to meet future employers and network with companies and fellow service leavers.

ER mag also features the 162 winners of the MODs Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards and as always, you can find information from CTP and about ELCAS entitlements.

Please visit the Easy Resettlement website to read this issue online and download it for free: www.easyresettlement.com/magazine

BRUNEI: The Brunei Half Marathon 2026 - Saturday, 21st - Sunday, 22nd November 2026 @ SHOAS Bridge

Calling all runners — take on Brunei’s most iconic route! 🏃‍♀️

The Brunei Half Marathon 2026 is getting closer. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, taking on your first race or running with friends and family, there’s a distance for everyone.

💳 Pay with an eligible BIBD Card and enjoy a 5% rebate on your registration fee.

Your registration includes race essentials such as a 2XU race shirt, race bib with timing chip, finisher medal, shuttle bus, refreshments, e-certificate and more*.

Get ready to run across the iconic Sultan Haji Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Bridge this November.

Instagram

Normal Registration ends 30 September 2026.

Scan the QR code or register at www.thebruneihalfmarathon.com

*Terms and conditions apply.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Brunssum: local pumpkin patches

With autumn well and truly upon us, pumpkin season is in full swing. There are several options for those who want to go pumpkin picking locally. 

• Boerderijwinkel Mertens-Urlings - Simpelveld 
• Kwekerij Bastin - Hulsberg 
• A. Nieland Kurbisse - Vlodrop 
• De Leropper Tuin - Sint Odiliënberg 
• 't Pompoensjuurke - two locations, Guttecoven and Retersbeek
• Gertrudenhof -  Hürth–Hermülheim, Germany

Not open for the whole season: Het Akkertje - Sint Odiliënberg (appointment only), and Kriegerhof - Langerwehe, Germany - 25 & 26 September

View the list on Google Maps.

We have a separate post about Pumpkimania, a pumpkin festival near Brussels. 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunei: Introduction to Early Help Awareness training session - Wednesday 30 September 2026 0800 - 1200 @ CCCC

Information provided by Brunei HIVE.

First Defence Finance: How does the Bank of England Work?

How Does the Bank of England Work? 

Author: First Defence Finance

You've probably heard the phrase "the Bank of England has changed interest rates" countless times.

But what does that actually mean?

Who decides whether interest rates go up or down? Why does the Bank of England change them? And how could a decision that gets made in London affect your savings, mortgage or loan?

With the Bank of England's next interest rate decision coming up on 17th September 2026, here's everything you need to know, without the financial jargon.

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support - BFB Local Handmade & Food Stall Bazaar Friday 25th September 2026, 1400 - 1700 hrs @ Chit Chat Community Centre

Please email BruneiGar-SpSvcs-AWS-Mailbox@mod.gov.uk for more information.

Ext: 3785

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: BFSWS ‘Togetherness’ A Parenting Course - Starting from Thursday, 01st October 2026. Every Tuesday & Thursday, 09:00 - 10:30 AM @ BFSWS Training Room, CCCC

Please click the image to enlarge.

BFSWS(O) is now offering another parenting course for year 2026, beginning the 1st of OCT 2026 for five weeks, twice a week.
Every Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The course will take place face to face at the BFSWS(O) training room .

A chance for parents to share their experiences and learn at the same time.

Certificate will be handed upon the completion of the course.

For any queries, please contact 

Rachana Niraula at 3224101 Ext. 3285 / 

email at Rachana.poudel@forcessocialwork.com

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Brunei: Dental Centre Update for Routine Clinics

Please be advised that the Dental Centre will be undergoing refurbishment (first phase) for approximately four weeks, commencing Friday, 25 September 2026.

During this period, our clinical capacity will be reduced by 50%. As a result, routine services will be limited, and there may be some unplanned disruption or changes to appointments.

We will continue to provide:

• Emergency dental appointments
• Priority appointments for Service personnel deploying on exercise, operations or training
• Currently booked in appointments are to go ahead as normal

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and greatly appreciate your patience and understanding while these essential works are completed. 

Information provided by Brunei HIVE.

BRUNEI: BFBS Brunei Radio Station Planned Power Shutdown - 23th and 24th September 2026

BFBS Brunei Radio Station Planned Power Shutdown - 23 and 24 Sept 2026

Planned power shutdown and 30 metre mast maintenance works are being carried out by DIO on Wednesday, 23 September 2026 and Thursday, 24 September 2026 in the morning.
This will affect services at BFBS Brunei Radio Station.

• Local Transmission of the BFBS Brunei TV and Radio services in Seria will be turned off from 1000 - 1730 hrs on both days.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update September 2026

Military families invited to help shape the future of Service Family Housing

The MOD has today launched the Red Tape Challenge, inviting families to tell us about processes that are getting in the way of them enjoying their homes, so that we can work to change them.

 

This is just one of a series of new pledges setting out clear commitments to Service families on the quality of their homes, customer service, and ensuring their voices are heard.

 

For more information and details on how to make a submission, click here.

Must-Watch TV Heading Your Way - BFBS Autumn Line up

Your weekly guide to the must-see TV across all the channels provided by BFBS. Full listings can be found on our website.

Must-Watch TV Heading Your Way




LEGENDS SEASON BEGINS ON BFBS EXTRA!

Get ready for epic battles, fearless warriors and unforgettable stories.

An adaptation of Homer's great epic Troy, the film follows the assault on Troy by the united Greek forces.

In 300, King Leonidas and 300 Spartan warriors stand against the vast Persian army in a legendary last stand at the Battle of Thermopylae.

And in 300: Rise of an Empire, Greek general Themistocles leads his forces against the invading Persian army in a brutal naval battle that will determine the fate of Greece.

Legends on BFBS TV | BFBS

Combat Stress ‘Stronger Together’ Webinar series – starting 1st Oct

Are you supporting a veteran with PTSD or trauma? @CombatStress, the UK's leading charity for Armed Forces mental health, has a free Stronger Together webinar series that can help:

Five sessions delivered by in-house clinical lead, Dr Vicky Aldridge

Gain insight into PTSD and trauma, communication strategies and how best to support your loved one and yourself

Starts Thursday 1 October 2026, every Thursday throughout October

 Register to book your place today

Recruit for Spouses October 2026 Events

 

Brad Pitt, comes to military working dog headquarters with BFBS

British Forces Broadcasting Service), brought Hollywood to the heart of the UK’s military working dog community, hosting an exclusive pre-release screening of Paramount Pictures’ Heart of the Beast, starring Brad Pitt, directed by David Ayer and written by Cameron Alexander, at the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR) in Melton Mowbray, the headquarters for the UK’s Military Working Animals.

Audiences experienced the pre-release in an entirely new way, stepping inside the all-new BFBS Movie Machine - a purpose-built digital cinema housed within a 44-tonne HGV.  Offering a truly unique cinema experience the specialist hydraulics transform the trailer, extending its sidewalls to create a fully self-contained, 80-seat mobile cinema, that has been bringing the big screen experience to armed forces communities since 2001.

BRUNEI: Jewellery Making Workshop - Sunday, 27th September 2026, 11 AM - 2 PM @ J Hotel, BSB

For more information - IG

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Gibraltar: Weekly Storytelling at the Library

Storytelling returns to the John Mackintosh Hall Library - every Thursday at 4.30pm.

Join them for a fun-filled session of stories, imagination and adventure. This free event is a wonderful way to inspire a love of reading and creativity. Book your place - see poster for contact details.

As an MOD resident you can join the library and take away books immediately - all you will need is your MOD badge and to fill in a short form. The library is at the far end of Main Street, beyond the Convent and beside Gibraltar International Bank.

Gibraltar: Europa Point Trinity Lighthouse opens to the public

Europa Point Trinity Lighthouse, one of Gibraltar’s most distinctive historic landmarks, has officially opened its doors to the public, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the history and significance of one of Gibraltar’s most strategically positioned sites.

Built in 1841, the lighthouse was vested in Trinity House by an Act of Parliament of 1838. It is the only Trinity Lighthouse located outside the British Isles and is the southernmost Trinity Lighthouse, standing at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, the gateway between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Its position provides a remarkable vantage point of one of the world’s most historically significant maritime routes, through which more than 300 ships navigate each day.

The opening marks an important addition to Gibraltar’s tourism offering, allowing visitors to experience the lighthouse and its surroundings while gaining a deeper understanding of Gibraltar’s maritime heritage and its enduring strategic importance.

Link to the booking site: www.gibraltarlighthouse.com

Brunssum: Oktoberfeest Sittard - October 2026

Oktoberfest Sittard is among the largest Oktoberfests in the Benelux, that has a large area with five pavilions varying in character, including a large funfair. 2026 Oktoberfest Sittard is on from Friday 16th October to Wednesday 21st October.

There are free entry options along with paid for options for certain shows.

The combination of old traditions and a social atmosphere makes for a festival for all ages, with something for everyone.

Find out the where, when and what via the 2026 Oktoberfeest Sittard website

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

BRUNEI: BFSWS - Safeguarding Course Dates

BFSWS(O) is now offering face-to-face Safeguarding courses:

Anyone interested can drop me an email on:rachana.poudel@forcessocialwork.com

(L2 is designed for a person who has contact with children, young people or vulnerable adults in their working environment including voluntary work.)

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

BRUNEI: The Carat Show - Saturday 19th September 2026, 8 PM @ Gadong Mall

Members of the public are welcome to enjoy the CARAT SHOW 2026, conducted by The Combined Bands of the RBAF and US 7th Fleet Band on:
Date: Saturday, 19 September 2026
Venue: The Mall, Gadong
Time: 8PM
Entry is free.
See you there!

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Gibraltar: Autumn Cultural programme 2026

 

Gibraltar Cultural Services is pleased to present its Autumn Cultural Programme 2026.

From art and literature to live entertainment and festive celebrations, there’s plenty to look forward to in the months ahead.

NAPLES: Couples Paint & Sip

 

In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month it's time to feel the love.

Head over to Support Site and showcase your artistic skills with a night of painting and mocktails.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Couples Cooking Class - In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 

Book early to secure your place.

Cook an amazing 3 course meal with Titti with love and laughter.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Fancy a bit of Soul Music - 5 February 2027

 

Soul Legacy coming soon - February 2027

When: 5 February 2027

Where: Teatro Acacia, Napoli

Tickets: www.soullegacychow.com

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Health Visitor is coming to Naples next week

Have you got your appointment?

Florence will be with us Tuesday to Thursday all week, if you haven't already - make sure you book in?

Information provided by NAPLES Hive.

Brunssum: Pumpkimania 2026

 Visit Pumpkimania for all things pumpkin related!

Marvel at the pumpkin sculptures, carve a pumpkin, go on a pumpkin boat ride and enjoy the thousands of colorful pumpkins that transform the park into an autumnal pumpkin wonderland. Pumpkimania is open from 25 September until 1 November. 

Visit https://pumpkimania.be/en for more information and to book your tickets.

Pumpkimania is located in the park of the castle Grand-Bigard (near Brussels)
Isidoor Van Beverenstraat 5 - 1702 Groot-Bijgaarden

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Department for Work & Pensions update: Do you know your state pension age?

With Pension Awareness Week 2026 ongoing, DWP are encouraging customers, service users, colleagues and stakeholders to take one simple first step: checking their State Pension age on GOV.UK. 

As State Pension entitlement is linked to National Insurance contributions, the Service community are reminded that spouses or civil partners who accompanied their Serving partner on an overseas assignment can complete a Gov.uk online form to request that NI credits are applied to their record for time spent overseas. 

For further information, eligibility criteria and the online form, please go to:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-insurance-credits-for-partners-of-armed-forces-personnel-overseas

 

BRUNEI: Treetops Nursery Open Day - Wednesday, 16th September 2026, 1400 - 1500

 

Please click the image to enlarge.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

Brunei: AWS Personal Support for Brunei

Please use the referral link below or QR code above for AWS Personal Support. 

AWS Personal Support Referral Form:

Contact and advice can also be sought from:

SSgt Roberts - AWS Personal Support Worker based within EJSU

WO2 Stitt - Senior Army Welfare Worker

BRUNEI: Visit of Lama Guru to British Forces Brunei - Tuesday, 15th September 2026, 0930 - 1100 hrs @ BFB Temple

Visit of Lama Guru to British Forces Brunei

Mental Health. The Lama Guru will deliver group and individual counselling, meditation, and Puja over the period. Service personnel or family requiring counselling or family rituals will be centrally coordinated by the UWO. Request should be made through CoC to the UWO, or SP and families can arrange directly with the Lama Guru.

BUDDHIST RELIGIOUS TEACHER [LAMA GURU] VISIT 

Visit Aim:

1. Support the moral component of the fighting power.
2. Pastoral care/ Spiritual support to the greater Garrison and 1RGR.
3. Support the BFB Comd’s intent and direction on mental health education and resilience.
4. Re-establishing the pattern of Lama Guru’s routine visit to BFB Buddhist and other communities.

Service personnel or family requiring counselling or family ritual’s request should be made through CoC to the UWC.