BRUSSELS: 11 days of possible identity checks in Cinquantenaire Park between 21st June and 2nd July

If you are planning to go to Cinquantenaire Park between 21st June and 2nd July, you may be subject to identity checks.

The American Embassy is celebrating the anniversary of American Independance on Sunday 28th June. Therefore a secure perimeter will be established around the park.

Security will be stationed at all entrances and exits to the area hosting the celebration.

More information here

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

NAPLES: Claiming your VAT back from Amazon UK on all orders addressed

 

Did you know you can claim UK VAT back from Amazon orders that have been delivered to the Naples BFPO 8 address?

Time Limit: Your refund request must be received by Amazon within 3 months of the supply/dispatch of the goods. 

How to Claim Your VAT Refund

1. Place and receive confirmation that your Amazon order has been dispatched.
2. Send email to vat-refund-requests@amazon.co.uk
3. Ensure your request includes your order number, your email address, and your full billing address

Below is a basic draft email for you to copy and edit.

Good morning 

I would like to claim the VAT back for my recent orders please.
Order Numbers:-

I am currently based overseas serving with NATO and am entitled to receive goods for my personal use from the UK FREE of VAT.

The orders have been addressed to:

YOUR NAME

NAPLES
BFPO 8

BF1 2AB

Please let me know if you require any more information to support this request.

Kind Regards

Your NAME

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

BRUNEI: DIO(B) - Hornbill School Access Road Work and Scheduled Water Temperature Monitoring and Chlorine Testing

DIO Brunei have been made aware of inappropriate contractor behaviour across the BFB estate. It has been reported (and proven) that on completion of works/tasks, some occupants are being pressured to change the completion date to improve Key Performance Indicators. This behaviour by the contractor is unacceptable. DIO have reprimanded the contractors for this behaviour.

Please report any further instances to the DIO Brunei WSM:

WO1 David Passarelli RE MAPM

Works Services Manager & Works Contracts Officer

DIO (Brunei)

Email: David.Passarelli572@mod.gov.uk

Your cooperation with the above request is greatly appreciated

Hornbill School Access Road Work commence announcement

Pleased be informed that construction works will be carried out in the vicinity of H16 Spg 121.

Scope of works

• Excavation and removal of existing road surface in front of house H16/42A&B, 43A&B,89A&B and 88A&B as indicated in Figure 1 below.
• Extension of laybys

Figure 1

Work Schedule

• Mobilisation Works: Commencing on 1st July 2026
• Excavation commencing on 16th July 2026

Expected Disruptions During Construction

1. Road Access Disruptions

• Temporary road closures and traffic diversions will be implemented
• Access to certain areas may be restricted during excavation and road works

2. Noise disturbance

• Residence in the surrounding area may experience increase noise levels due to hacking, excavation, and other construction activities.

3. Heavy machineries operation

• Loading and unloading of materials will be carried out periodically throughout the construction period.

4. Temporary parking and pedestrian access

• Temporary parking spaces and pedestrian walkways will be designated and made available for residents of the affected houses.

5. Safety measures

• Safety barricades, warning signs, and directional signage will be installed around the work area throughout the construction period.

Apologies for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience as these improvement works are carried out.

We appreciate your understanding. For any enquiries, please reach out to the DIO(B) Helpdesk.

Phone Number: 3224130 or military ext 3375
Email: BRUNEIGAR-DIO-HelpDesk@mod.gov.uk or DIORDOSTrg-BruHelpdesk@mod.uk

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 sentinal 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 Scheduled Work

DIO contractors will be carrying out inspection works as shown in the table below. Utilities may be affected during the work, but DIO contractors will try to minimise disruption.

To reschedule, please kindly contact DIO(B) Helpdesk either via phone Calls Ext.3375 or 3224130 or Email: BRUNEIGAR-DIO-HelpDesk@mod.gov.uk during office hours.

Planned renovation works at H16 Building 1, 2, 7, and 8

As per agreed renovation or refurbishment programme, DIO(B) contractor will start work at H16 Building 1, 2, 7, and 8 for 6 month from next week for the mobilisation works.

For safety reason, please avoid entering and parking surround the construction site at all times. During working hours, the surrounding area may experience increased noise level, loading and unloading activities, and restricted access due to safety measures. All road access to PCMS, accommodation areas, and the thrift shop will remain available. However, all road users are advised to exercise caution at all times when using these routes.

If you have any concerns or issues related to the works, including health and safety matters, please contact the DIO(B) Helpdesk as you first point of contact.

• Mon – Sat: 0800 – 1700
• Start mobilisation date: 13 June 2026
• Start construction works: 1 July 2026
• Target completion date: End of Jan 2027

BRUNEI: AWS Community Support Activities - What's On in BFB...

AWS CS Monthly Calendar

Please click the images to enlarge.

Week Activities

Senior Club - Temporarily Closed

Due to non-attendance, the AWS-CS senior club for the school year 7-8 is temporarily closed until further notice.

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

Movie Session Thursday, 30th July 2026, 1230 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 - Summer Programme 2026

Please click the images to enlarge.

Information provided by BRUNEI HIVE.

MOD’s Families Hub is now in its second year – have you used it yet?

 

Discover My Benefits - Families

GSO Chaplaincy Summer Newsletter

 

To read the latest GSO Chaplaincy Summer Newsletter, view here.

AFCFT ‘Supporting Partners Programme’ opens for applications, closes 23rd Sept with notification by end of Nov

The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust) are pleased to let you know that the Supporting Partners programme under the MOD’s Armed Forces Families Fund is now open and ready to welcome new applications!

What’s the programme all about?

Since 2023, the Trust have awarded over £2.5m on behalf of the MOD to 45 projects under the Armed Forces Families Fund: Supporting Partners programme which seeks to provide support and solutions to help partners of serving personnel navigate the challenges of service life.

SHAPE: Hough and Lewis Family Leaving Party, Friday 19th June 2026 16:00 onwards

Come and say Cheerio to the Hough and Lewis Families at the Britbar this Friday.

After a fab few years, both families are heading off to pastures new. Please come along for a drink and a natter to see us on our ways.

WHEN: Friday 19th June 2026, 16:00 onwards
WHERE: The Britbar        
WHO: Everyone Welcome

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE