The NAFESE Community Directory 2026 is produced by the National Armed Forces & Emergency Services Events Team. Editor - Mal Robinson | Publications Manager - Sam Rosenthal | Design - Liam Grieves Imagery - NAFESE, MOD Crown Copyright 2026. Contact: hospitality@nafese2023.com
While the publishers have taken all reasonable care to ensure that all material is accurate at the time of going to press, they can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions. No liability is accepted for omission or failure from any cause. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of NAFESE.. Professional advice should be sought before making any commitment to business transactions detailed within NAFESE. All advertisements are accepted only on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Inclusion of an advertisement cannot be construed as an endorsement of the advertiser or the product by the publishers, their employees or agents. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transaction between readers and advertisers. No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publishers.
NAFESE Community Directory 2026 - Copyright Parade Square Pickles Ltd.
WELCOME
Hello and welcome to the 2026 edition of the National Armed Forces & Emergency Services Events Team Community Directory.
Now in our third year of producing this annual publication for the UK forces and blue light communities (how time flies), we welcome some familiar faces and new working partners inside this issue you see before you.
As ever, we cover the topics of resettlement from the services with recruitment and training opportunities inside, we explore the charity side of life further inside (building on our successful launch of the Forces Charity Compendium in 2025), whilst looking at various options for housing and property elsewhere in the magazine.
I am delighted to have Help for Heroes as our Main Sponsor for this year’s Directory and as you will read later, the military charity continues to do some fantastic work, as they were doing, when I was passing through the latter stages of my RAF career in 2011.
There are some superb opportunities and contacts within these pages, so please feel free to share far and wide and share the knowledge with your colleagues, spouses, friends and family and ultimately “share the joy”.
The NAFESE main event of the year “NAFESE 2026” is due to take place on Wednesday May 13, once again at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland and this event, which is the only one of its kind catering for both forces and services all under one roof, features the 2026 Services
Awards for the first time at the same event.
The Awards as we know, celebrate the best in service from armed to emergency to volunteer and further information on how to nominate people (either individuals or units) can be found at the NAFESE website - www.nafese2023.com
All the very best for 2026!
Kind regards,
Mal
Mal Robinson, Editor, NAFESE 2026
Community Directory.
Veterans and their families are still fighting some of their toughest battles yet.
Pain, poverty, mental trauma, inaccessible homes. That’s why Help for Heroes remains by their side, for as long as it takes. Fighting for the peace that veterans deserve.
Our teams are on the new front line across the UK. Supporting veterans in their homes and communities, where they’re needed most.
Helping those who have served our country, and their loved ones, with a range of issues.
Whether that be physical and mental health. Loneliness and isolation. Financial worries. Our teams are helping our nation’s heroes get their lives back on track.
It doesn’t matter where or when someone served. How long for. What their rank or regiment was. Their injury, illness or issue doesn’t need to be service related.
If a veteran or a family member is in need, we can help.
We’re also here for civilians who served under UK Command.
We were founded in 2007 when there was a critical need to support our nation’s returning wounded troops.
But we’re now busier than ever.
Last year we worked with 5,229 veterans and family members. An increase of 31 per cent on the year before. And to meet this rise in demand our teams are growing.
And you don’t need to be injured or ill to get our support.
Even if you just fancy a brew and a chat
with others who have served, we can make that happen. We have cafes across the UK where you can meet like-minded people in a safe and friendly environment.
And we can help you find interest groups in your local area – such as a sport club, history group, running, walking, arts and crafts. Whatever your interests are, we can find a local group for you so you can connect with your new community.
We know that life can be tough when you’re transitioning from military to civilian life – for the veteran and their family. That’s why we’re with you every step of the way.
And we don’t just change lives, we fight to make change happen. Our policy and public affairs team are exposing injustice and fighting for veterans’ rights. Challenging and working with decision makers at every level of society to make sure that veterans are treated right by the country they stood up and risked their lives for.
If you think we can help you or someone you know, please get in touch today.
Blind Veterans UK is the national charity for ex-Service men and women with severe sight loss, is proud to once again support NAFESE in 2026.
Founded in 1915, and previously known as St Dunstan’s, the charity was set up in response to blinded soldiers returning from the First World War. It has supported tens of thousands of Armed Forces and National Service veterans to rebuild their lives after sight loss.
Blind Veterans UK supports over 3,000 blind veterans across the country, but those at the charity know there are thousands more who still need its support.
While they initially cared for veterans blinded in active Service, today they help veterans no matter what caused their sight loss. They support anyone who has served in the armed forces, and also those who have lost their sight while on duty in the emergency services.
Blind Veterans UK gives veterans free rehabilitation, training and support they need to live independent lives.
It has a network of local support teams all over the UK who give blind veterans the rehabilitation and training they need closer to them, either in their own home, their local area, or remotely. As well as providing free specialist equipment, the charity also supports veterans to find new hobbies such as art and other creative activities.
If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces and is struggling with vision loss, contact 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/gethelp.
LIFE
Life is a UK pregnancy support charity, here to make sure no individual and no family has to face pregnancy or pregnancy loss alone.
We are delighted to sponsor NAFESE as it connects the people who are giving so much and making so many personal and family sacrifices in order to support and protect the people of the UK.
Life has both team members and clients who are members of the armed forces and emergency services or have family members among you. The work you do isn’t just a job, it’s a life of sacrifice and service and you are specialists in your field.
Sometimes, though, things happen in families and in life that you don’t expect and didn’t plan for.
Life are specialists in supporting people facing every kind of pregnancy experience you can imagine. We’ve been doing it for 55 years.
Whatever you have gone through, are going through, or may face in the future related to pregnancy or pregnancy loss: just as you are here for all of us, we are here for you. Check us out at lifecharity.org.uk.
HEARTBURN CANCER UK
Heartburn Cancer UK is proud to sponsor the NAFESE Community Directory for 2026 and to support the wider services community.
Our charity exists to save lives by raising awareness of oesophageal cancer (cancer of the food pipe), one of the UKs deadliest yet most overlooked cancers. Its early warning signs include persistent heartburn or acid reflux. Our mission is to empower and reassure people with trusted information and support – whether you are worrying about symptoms or diagnosed with oesophageal cancer or a pre-cancerous condition Barrett’s oesophagus.
Oesophageal cancer is the seventh biggest cancer killer in the UK, and the fourth biggest for men. More men are diagnosed than women, with risk increasing from the age of 40 onwards. Many people do not know the symptoms, while others dismiss them as nothing more than ‘just heartburn’ and rely on remedies like Rennie’s or Gaviscon.
Symptoms such as ongoing heartburn, a nagging cough, food sticking or difficulty swallowing can be signs that something more serious is developing. Sadly, because these warning signals are often missed or ignored, oesophageal cancer is commonly diagnosed at a later stage when curative treatment becomes far less likely.
That is why we are urging everyone to understand the symptoms, be “heartburn aware,” and seek medical advice. Early diagnosis saves lives.
If you have persistent heartburn, indigestion or reflux that lasts for more than three weeks, speak to your GP. It may be nothing serious, but getting checked could make all the difference.
To learn more visit: www.heartburncanceruk.org
RECRUITMENT & RESETTLEMENT
Over the next few pages we have condensed the best recruitment opportunities for 2026 for those who may be considering leaving the services at some point in the near future.
All of our clients featured within these pages come highly recommended, with many being Veteran friendly.
Our team has been through the resettlement process and the common train of thought in the resettlement cycle of life is as follows…
Network - find out the qualifications you need for your chosen path - network some more - try and gain experience (or added experience within this field) - network some more (returning to previous contacts made with people) - and hopefully enter into your second career.
Hopefully you can begin that networking journey from the tips of your fingers via these pages…
Chemring Countermeasures is a world leader in the design and manufacture of life-saving countermeasures which protect aircraft and ships from missile attacks.
People are at the heart of our business and we’re on a mission to grow our great team.
If you want to be part of a great team manufacturing life saving products, then we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact recruit@chemringcm.com further information.
Tel: 01722 428776
PROUD SUPPORTER OF THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT
BUILDING A STRONGER TOMORROW
Velta delivers high-quality construction, infrastructure, utilities, and renewable energy projects that make a lasting difference across Wales and beyond.
We’re proud supporters of the armed forces community, valuing the dedication, discipline, and leadership that service personnel bring. If you’re looking for a place where your skills are recognised and your experience matters, join a team shaping the future while honouring those who served. JOIN
Join
Wiltshire Council Help serve your community
Why us?
We offer supportive networks, meaningful roles, and collaborative environments.
Ex-armed forces who meet the essential criteria for roles are offered a guaranteed interview.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF DEFENCE AND SECURITY INNOVATION
The University of Southampton’s EPSRC and MOD Centre for Doctoral Training in Complex Integrated Systems for Defence and Security (CISDnS) is dedicated to developing the next generation of research and innovation leaders. Backed by numerous industry partners, this multimillion pound partnership aims to address critical skills shortages in the sector and tackle multidisciplinary challenges across digital, physical, and biological systems.
CISDnS welcomes recent graduates, defence sector employees, those transitioning to civilian roles or returning to study, and those with non-traditional academic backgrounds. With full-time and part-time PhD pathways, including iPhD and EngD routes, students gain hands-on experience in an industry cocreated training environment.
Organisations can engage by sponsoring employees, co-funding studentships, or proposing research topics relevant to their needs. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures research translates into realworld impact covering areas ranging from maritime and aerospace, to medical, electronic and computer systems.
For any questions about the centre, as either a PhD candidate or as a potential industrial partner, please contact: cisdns@ soton.ac.uk
COMPLEX INTEGRATED SYSTEMS FOR DEFENCE AND SECURITY
PhD OPPORTUNITIES
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF DEFENCE AND SECURITY
The University of Southampton’s EPSRC and MOD Centre for Doctoral Training in Complex Integrated Systems for Defence and Security (CISDnS) is dedicated to developing the next generation of research and innovation leaders. Backed by numerous industry partners, this multi-million pound partnership aims to address critical skills shortages in the sector and tackle multidisciplinary challenges across digital, physical, and biological systems.
CISDnS welcomes recent graduates, defence sector employees, those transitioning to civilian roles or returning to study, and those with nontraditional academic backgrounds. With full-time and part-time PhD pathways, including iPhD and EngD routes, students gain hands-on experience in an industry co-created training environment.
CISDnS provides an innovative approach to doctoral training. Through a cohort based approach our doctoral researchers are exposed to a truly multidisciplinary research environment. They are also provided with a transferable understanding of practical innovation and systems thinking, delivered from the context of defence and security.
Organisations can engage by sponsoring employees, co-funding studentships, or proposing research topics relevant to their needs. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures research translates into real-world impact covering areas ranging from maritime and aerospace, to medical, electronic and computer systems. For any questions about the centre, as either a PhD candidate or as a potential industrial partner, please contact: cisdns@soton.ac.uk
We are a long-established Law Firm based in Shrewsbury, Shropshire Having provided legal services since 1752, we specialise in supporting serving members, veterans and their families across a wide range of legal areas including Military Employment Law, The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, Personal Injury, Clinical Negligence and Family Law We are a Founder Member of the Forces Law network, and in 2016 w
Our People
:
r Hi
, Director
provides training to the network and military charities on Military Law To contact Keir: 01743 290 105 or keir hirst@wmlaw co uk
Clare joined Wace Morgan in 2015 having qualified as a Solicitor in 1998.
Clare has extensive experience in Military Law Matters, including claims against the MOD for personal injuries such
as Non-Freezing Cold Injuries and Pelvic Stress claims, administrative failings resulting in negligent treatment and
Bullying & Harassment claims In financial matters Clare can assist with The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) and War Pension claims
In addition Clare has over 25 years experience dealing with Serious Injury claims arising out of Road Traffic Accidents, Accidents at work, Slips and Trips, Fatal Accidents and Clinical Negligence
To contact Clare: 01743 280 104 or clare dalby@wmlaw co uk
Sue Leach, Head of Private Family
Clare Dalby, Head of Personal Injury
Sue joined Wace Morgan in August 2020 and brings over 20 years experience in all areas of family law with particular expertise in divorce, financial remedy and separation Sue has advised a wide range of high net worth clients professionals and business owners in various sectors including complex cases with businesses, pensions and inherited wealth issues Sue has extensive experience in advising
elation to military pensions on divorce and the issues that these bring to financial settlement
To contact Sue: 01743 284 218 or sue leach@wmlaw co uk
Kei
rst
Career long pension guidance is a click away.
Armed Forces pension schemes are complex, and you may be surprised to learn how much you can influence what you’ll receive when you leave. You’ll be faced with numerous choices as your career progresses and you’ll need to be aware of changes in taxation, pros and cons of added pension, commutation, and even choosing the best time to leave. All of these choices will impact on your pension income.
AFPS15 is among the best pension schemes in the public sector. Because it’s government backed, there’s no need for any concern about share price fluctuations. Your pension grows every year you’re in service. At today’s values, a pension of £20k requires a pension pot of more than £400k - considerably more than the average UK pension pot size for over 50’s.
Engage with us as early in your career as possible and build your pension value right up to the point you leave.
When you join us, your membership fee will give you access to our expert Pensions Consultants who will guide you through your career and into resettlement, with expertise tailored to your personal circumstances. Job done.
The ‘third sector’ is an umbrella term that covers a range of different organisations with different structures and purposes, belonging neither to the public sector (i.e., the state) nor to the private sector (profit-making private enterprise). You may have heard other terms used to describe such organisations – the voluntary sector, non-governmental organisations, non-profit organisations – particularly in public discussions around policy and politics. These terms all describe organisations which share the same fundamental elements:
• Non-governmental: although they often work with or alongside government agencies, and may receive government funding or commissions, third sector organisations are independent from the government.
• Non-profit: third sector organisations raise funds and generate financial surpluses in order to invest in social, environmental, or cultural objectives. They do not seek to make profits as an end in its own right.
• Values-driven: third sector organisations pursue specific goals which are often aligned with particular social and political perspectives. They may be associated with or work with political parties, but a political party is not a third sector organisation.
THIRD SECTOR ORGANISATIONS INCLUDE:
• Charities
• Voluntary and community organisations
• Social enterprises and cooperatives
• Think tanks and private research institutes (this does not include universities and colleges)
• Some organisations, such as housing associations, have been spun off from government and are considered quasi-third sector groups, even though they deliver public services.
Third sector organisations operate at all levels of society, from the very local to the national and the international, and they make a significant – and rapidly increasing – contribution to the health and well-being of society both in the UK and abroad. Following the 2010 General Election, the government made it clear that charities and voluntary organisations would be expected to perform an increasing amount of the social and cultural functions which it has previously been the work of the public sector to provide, and many third sector organisations receive government commissions to provide services on the government’s behalf. The Office for Civil Society, led by the Minister for Civil Society, is the government agency currently tasked with overseeing the government’s civil society agenda, and managing the relationship between the third sector and the government.
The growing importance of the third sector to public life and services is not just limited to the UK, but is a worldwide phenomenon. For this reason, working with third sector organisations can be a very effective way to impact on public policy.
WHAT DOES THE THIRD SECTOR DO?
Typically most third sector organisations devote themselves either to a particular issue which needs solving (for example, climate change or unaffordable housing); or to a particular group in society (for example, dementia sufferers, or women facing cultural barriers to education) who requires support and representation. They may provide services related to these issues (for example, running a women’s shelter, or providing legal advice). Some organisations (particularly think tanks and research institutes) may work on a whole range of issues, but apply a particular philosophical and political filter. Their focus maybe local, national, or global.
Third sector groups try to achieve their aims through a wide range of activities. Some, such as fundraising, providing services, or providing other forms of direct support and advice to the groups they help, are about immediate action. However, third sector organisations usually also want to back up direct assistance with long-term or systemic change, involving changes to relevant local, national, or international policies. They seek to bring these policy changes about in lots of different ways, all of which offer potential opportunities for academic collaboration or input.
CARRYING OUT OR COMMISSIONING RESEARCH
Many third sector organisations either employ their own researchers, or commission independent or academic researchers, to carry out investigations into subjects that affect the groups and issues they deal with. In addition, they will also aim to be widely-read in the existing and emerging academic research in relevant fields. Research helps third sector organisations identify emerging issues they should focus on, and provides evidence to back up their policy proposals and campaigning. This is an obvious way your research can make a real difference.
PUBLIC CAMPAIGNS
Third sector organisations also aim to raise public awareness and shape public perceptions about particular issues. They do this through public campaigns that may use a range of traditional and social media to get their message across. These campaigns may be aimed at the general public, or they may be targeted at certain groups or sectors, and this will affect media strategies and types of platform chosen. Third sector organisations want these campaigns to be as credible and authoritative as possible, so this is another area where academic research or an academic viewpoint can be of real value.
Article originally written for Northern Bridge Doctoral Training Partnership.
A bicycle can change everything.
For people in rural communities across Africa, a bike means access to work, education, healthcare and opportunity.
By supporting Re-Cycle, you’re giving unwanted bikes a second life — creating independence and keeping bikes out of landfill.
Simple idea. Real impact.
The difference you can make
Help get bikes from the UK to communities across Africa where they’re needed most
Support Learn to Ride programmes that build skills, confidence and independence — especially for girls
Enable Re-Cycle to train more local bike mechanics— including empowering more women in the process DONATE TODAY
Life is unpredictable - but for those connected to the Armed Forces, uncertainty can be an everyday companion. Frequent moves, time apart, last minute deployments that change routines and cause separations. Support networks come and go and resilience becomes second nature. Even the most capable people don’t always know what to do...or say.
• What would you do if someone you loved told you they were unexpectedly pregnant?
• What would you say if a new neighbour shared, they’d suffered a pregnancy loss?
• How would you respond to a pregnancy after a previous loss? Or if someone quietly admitted they were struggling after an abortion, carrying emotions they hadn’t expected?
Even with stable relationships and strong community ties, these situations can leave people feeling overwhelmed and unsure. But what happens when there’s no familiar support to turn to? When a recent move has severed friendships, family are far away, or life on civvy street or within the Forces has left someone isolated at the very moment they need connection most?
Rebecca knows this feeling well. After the excitement of her first pregnancy, she suffered a miscarriage, and then another. Over two years, she endured repeated
losses. She described feeling as though the world moved on while she remained stuck in grief, unsure who she could talk to or whether anyone truly understood. What made the difference was not quick answers, but someone to listen.
Through Life’s support, Rebecca found a safe space to speak honestly and begin to process what she had been carrying.
Her story is not unique. Whatever the pregnancy experience, many people find themselves facing difficulties they never imagined without knowing where to turn.
Life exists to stand in that gap. We provide free, confidential support for women, men and families facing any form of pregnancy-related challenge. From our helpline and counselling services to community support and safe housing, Life offers practical help and compassionate listening when it’s needed most.
Because when someone finally says,”/ don’t know what to do.”the most important thing is knowing someone is there to listen - for as long as you need.
We’re asking, “What would you do? Would you know what to say?” because these moments arrive quietly and unexpectedly and knowing that support exists can change everything.
If you or someone you know needs support, get in touch with Life’s Helpline:
Text:07860077339
BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND INDEPENDENCE
BLIND VETERANS UK’S WORKINGAGE REHABILITATION PROGRAM
Sight loss can leave many veterans feeling alone, scared and dependent on others. Blind Veterans UK supports all veterans regardless of when they served or how they lost their sight.
This support manifests itself in many ways but for those blind veterans who are of working age one of the most important things the charity offers is a specialist Working-Age Rehabilitation Program. This supports and rehabilitates blind veterans to help them live independently as a first step for getting back into the workforce. Over the course of five-days, the veterans are supported to develop vital independent living skills which will hopefully lead to them accessing, obtaining and remaining in employment. But the course is not just about employment, veterans are also encouraged and supported to set personal goals and revisit past hobbies or explore new ones.
Each veteran is different; their sight loss journey is unique and, through a series of group and one-to-one sessions and presentations, they are helped to achieve their goals.
Over seventy blind veterans have been supported specifically through the charity’s Working-Age Rehabilitation Program over the last 12 months.
The program has recently been given a boost with additional funding from Specsavers, one of Blind Veterans UK’s corporate partners. Senior PR Manager from Specsavers, Marc Breton, says:
“We’re proud to support their Working-Age Rehabilitation Program, in order to help veterans overcome some of the challenges
they face with sight loss.”
Some of those who have recently been on the course and continue to be supported have shared what the program has meant for them.
Jill, an ex-Army nurse, shared how the program transformed her life. She says: “Due to the confidence this course has given me, I’m now doing an apprenticeship with the charity supporting the Working-Age Members group and the running of the Working- Age Rehabilitation Program.”
Rob, who served 25 years in the Army, learned how to stay in employment despite sight loss He says: “Companies aren’t hiring me for my eyesight—they’re hiring me for my brain. With the right adjustments, I can thrive.”
Blind Veterans UK supports thousands across the country but knows many more need help rebuilding their lives after sight loss. If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces and is struggling with vision loss, contact 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/gethelp.
If you or a loved one served in the military, we can help you with a range of issues.
Help for Heroes is busier than ever. Changing lives and helping veterans with some of their toughest battles yet.
Pain. Poverty. Isolation. Inaccessible homes. We’re here on the new frontline across the UK, standing up for those who stood up for us.
Fighting to help veterans find the peace they deserve.
Our Clinical Services Team help veterans with an injury or illness to get the physical healthcare they need. We work with the veteran to find out what their priorities are – that might be to improve their walking, talking, to use their bathroom easier.
We have occupational therapists and nurses who visit people in their homes and communities across the UK to help them achieve their life goals. And we’re able to help people navigate the sometimes confusing civilian healthcare system.
Our Hidden Wounds Team supports veterans and family members with a wide range of mental health conditions. Such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They also help people
navigate bereavement, relationship and identity issues and loneliness.
If you’re struggling to claim the benefits or War pension you’re entitled to, or can’t find somewhere to live or employment, our Case Managers are experts in welfare issues and can help you get your life back on track.
We have a Grants Team who can provide funding for equipment or access to healthcare if an injury or illness is holding you back. This might include a new wheelchair, or improvements to your house so that you can get into it and around it more easily.
So that you can move forward with life, we have a Recovery College specifically designed for veterans and their families. It provides online courses and self-help guides so that people can gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to write their next chapter.
The courses are run by people with expertise through training and veterans with expertise through lived experience. As well as teaching people new skills and important information, it’s a chance for veterans and families to spend time together with others who have served.
And you don’t need to be ill or injured to get our support. Our Community Development Team can help you find interest groups near where you live – that could be a sport group, a local history society, or you might be into walking, arts, craft, engineering. Whatever your hobbies are, new or old, we can help you find a fun and interesting group near you, so you can make friends and engage with your local community.
We also have cafes across the UK so that you can pop in and have a brew and a chat with other veterans and family members who live near you. Because we know the importance of that shared bond between people who have worn the uniform.
It doesn’t matter where or when you served, or for how long. You might have served in a conflict zone; you might not have. If you’re a veteran and you think we can help you, please get in touch.
Likewise, we’re here for the families too. Because when life gets tough for someone who has served it can impact on those around them.
And we also support civilians who served under UK Command. Their families too.
You were all there for us. We’re now here for you.
If you think we can help you or someone you know, please get in touch today.
Visit helpforheroes.org.uk/get-help/ Call 0300 303 9888. Scan the QR code.
Everyone needs some extra help from time to time, but the unique pressures faced by those in the Royal Naval Community, which exist in almost no other profession, demand a coordinated and comprehensive response.
Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity works in conjunction with a whole host of military and civilian charity partners to address the issues faced by Royal Navy families. Throughout pre-deployment, deployment, adaptation to an altered family unit, and post-deployment, we are there to ensure that they have the support on the ground they need and deserve.
Why Heartburn Isn’t Always Harmless
Heartburn is a part of daily life for many people, but few are aware of the risks of experiencing heartburn long-term.
Heartburn, also known as acid reflux or indigestion, is familiar to almost everyone. That uncomfortable chest feeling or unpleasant taste in the mouth after eating can often be dismissed as minor and easily treated with off-the-shelf medicine. However, persistent heartburn may signal something more serious, including oesophageal cancer (cancer of the food pipe) or a potentially precancerous condition called Barrett’s oesophagus. People with Barrett’s are normally monitored regularly to check that the cell changes don’t develop into cancer.
Oesophageal cancer is the seventh biggest cancer killer in the UK and the fourth biggest for men. Most new cases of oesophageal cancer are found in men, particularly those in their 40s and 50s. Many members of the Armed Forces and emergency
services community - including serving personnel, veterans, and their families and friends - are in this age group, making awareness and regular health checks particularly important.
Because early warning signs are often overlooked, the disease is frequently diagnosed at a late stage when treatment is difficult.
Heartburn occurs when the sphincter (muscular valve) at the bottom of the oesophagus (the food pipe), does not work properly. This allows stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus, causing pain and irritation. While common, unresolved heartburn can sometimes lead to changes in the cells lining the oesophagus, which may develop into cancer.
Lifestyle changes can help reduce heartburn and related risks. Avoiding late-night meals, losing weight around the tummy, and reducing triggers like spicy foods or alcohol can make a difference.
Common symptoms to watch out for include:
• Burning sensation or pain behind the breastbone
• Sour taste in the back of your mouth or bad breath
• Food coming back up after eating, bending, or exercising (regurgitation)
• Difficulty swallowing, frequent throat clearing, coughing, or choking
• Hoarse voice or sore throat
• Hiccups
• Burping
Military vs Cancer: Pulling Together from John O’Groats to Land’s End
Between 01 August and 31 October 2025, the Field Gun once again became a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and service as part of the Military vs Cancer John O’Groats to Land’s End challenge.
If any of these symptoms have lasted three weeks or more, it’s important to get them checked by a healthcare professional. Recognising early warning signs and seeking medical advice ensures any potential issues are addressed promptly.
Early action is key to improving early diagnosis and survival rates.
Know the symptoms. Be heartburn aware.
For more trusted information, expert diet and lifestyle advice, and support, visit www.heartburncanceruk.org.
Covering the length of the UK, teams hauled the iconic Field Gun through towns, cities, and communities, transforming a historic military skill into a moving act of remembrance and fundraising. Each pull honoured those affected by cancer while showcasing the strength and determination synonymous with the Armed Forces and Emergency Services.
Rooted in naval history, the Field Gun Pull is a demanding test of teamwork, discipline, and endurance. Over the course of this challenge, those qualities were tested daily — often in difficult weather and after long miles — yet crews continued to perform with professionalism and pride.
What made this event truly special was its public engagement. Communities lined routes, learned the history of the Field Gun, and witnessed firsthand the values shared by those who serve: commitment, camaraderie, and compassion.
DO NOT BECOME A UV CASUALTY
Your skin is essential kit. Look after it.
Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK
High UV exposure from the sun and sunbeds is the main cause
Spot changes in your moles early and get them checked
Armed forces and emergency services face high UV exposure. Protect your skin to protect your future health.
Check your skin. Learn the signs here
Veterans Awards 2026
The Veterans Awards are a Not for Profit Organisation that promotes the positives from the Veteran Community, serving reservists and those organisations that support us. It's been put together by Veterans for Veterans in what has become our home nations national awards with three separate award ceremonies taking place in England, Scotland and Wales and we also support the Northern Irish Awards. Any money above and beyond costs is then distributed via a small grants scheme to smaller CIC's and Charities who work at grass routes level within the veterans community and have a turnover of under 100k per annum!
In the UK we have a huge number of highly successful Armed Forces Veterans that have made the transition from the Military to civilian life. We want to reward these veterans who have gone above and beyond and excelled in their relevant fields. They will act as role models for future service leavers We want to find the people who even during the most difficult periods have excelled!
We hope that the veterans, reservists and Organisations who get shortlisted at our awards can tell their story and act as role models for future service leavers. We plan to make a series of short videos form our shortlisted finalists giving tips and advice to help other service leavers! Hopefully making the transition from the Military to civilian life that little bit easier!
Key dates for your diary and the locations for the Veterans Awards in 2026 sponsored by Thales Group are below:
A GUIDE TO SUBMITTING A ELC CLAIM (SERVING PERSONNEL)
The following is a guide on how to submit a claim for Serving Personnel in the UK Armed Forces. Should you have any further questions after reading this information, please contact education staff at your nearest Education or Resettlement Centre.
“Before being eligible to make an ELC claim, individual scheme members must have completed not less than six years eligible service (lower tier). If you have completed 4 years qualifying service prior to 1st April 2017, please read JSP 822. The lower tier of funding is up to £1,000 per claim instalment and the higher tier (eight years service) is up to £2,000 per claim instalment. Only service accumulated since 1st April 2000, may be counted as eligible service for the purpose of the ELC Scheme.
You are entitled to make three ELC claims in total. You can only make one claim per financial year (1 April- 31 March), however if you have served between 6 and 8 years you may be eligible to aggregate all three lower tier claims together subject to meeting the qualifying criteria in JSP 822. As the expiration date of your claims is dependent upon many factors please read JSP 822. If you are claiming in the last year of your scheme eligibility, you must commence study before your scheme expiry date.
If you are in your qualifying resettlement phase you may be eligible to claim under the Joint Funding Initiative (PF FE/ HE Scheme). For the full details and to check the eligibility rules, please view the Serving Personnel/Claiming Publicly Funded FE/HE page.
PROCEDURE FOR ELIGIBLE SERVICE PERSONNEL
You must complete an online claim and submit to your Education Staff a minimum of 25 working days prior to your course start date.
On receipt of your Claim Authorisation Note (CAN), you must present it to your chosen Learning Provider before the course is due to start.”
SOURCE: www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
ELC SCHEME - POINTS OF NOTE
• ●Remember to fully research and do your homework on the training course provider and your course of choice, you wish to use your ELC for.
• ●ELC funding is only available for courses that result in a Nationally Recognised Qualification at level three or above on the National Qualification Framework or level six or above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.
• ●You need to submit your Claim Authorisation Note (CAN) BEFORE the start of your course date.
• ●Remember you also need to make a contribution of at least 20% towards the course total cost
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FORCES HELP TO BUY
The Forces Help to Buy (FHTB) scheme is a government-backed initiative allowing regular armed forces personnel to borrow up to 50% of their annual salary—capped at £25,000—interest-free to buy a first home, move to a new property, or in some cases, extend a current home. As of January 2023, it is an enduring policy repayable over 10 years.
KEY ASPECTS OF THE SCHEME:
• ●Purpose: The loan can be used for a deposit, solicitor fees, and estate agent fees.
• ●Eligibility: Generally open to regular service personnel with a minimum of 2 years’ service (pre-requisite length) and more than six months left to serve.
• ●Property Type: The property purchased must be one that the service person or their family intends to live in
• Repayment: Interest-free, repaid in monthly installments from salary over a maximum of 10 years.
• ●Leaving Service: If a service person leaves the Armed Forces before the loan is fully repaid, the remaining balance is usually recovered from terminal benefits.
• ●Application: Applications are made through the Joint Personnel Administration (JPA) system.
The scheme is designed to address low homeownership rates within the armed forces, assisting personnel in overcoming the high deposit requirements.
Supporting
Social Housing Provides Lifeline for Veteran after Home Repossession
Army veteran Terry Coxon says he was struggling to cope until he secured a new home with believe housing, after his mortgage lender began proceedings to repossess his home.
Terry had been paying an interest-only mortgage for years; unaware he still owed a significant sum. Approaching 70 and in poor health following a heart attack and two strokes, he was unable to repay the debt and feared becoming homeless.
With 22 years’ service in the Royal Artillery, including four tours of Northern Ireland, Terry turned to Believe Housing, one of the largest housing associations in the northeast of England, and the Armed Forces Outreach
Service (AFOS) for support.
Thanks to an established and proactive partnership, Believe Housing and AFOS helped Terry apply for a bungalow in County Durham and access benefits advice.
“My house was being repossessed, and it shook me to the core,” he said.
“I was barely managing before, so to get the help and home I needed is beyond my wildest dreams. I found it difficult asking for help, but once I did, the support was fantastic.”
AFOS Outreach Worker, Steve Winter, said: “We recognised Terry’s vulnerability early and worked with Believe Housing to prevent homelessness by looking holistically at his needs.”
Simon Bartlett, Interim Director of Neighbourhoods at Believe Housing, said: “This is a great example of how social housing and partnership working can protect wellbeing and prevent crisis.”
Believe Housing is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and holds the Employer Recognition Scheme gold award.
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