CONTACT 1 Te lephone: 01780 781650 Welcome email: [email protected] Website: raf-ff.org.uk from the editor

Envoy –The magazine of the RAF Families We are now fully into our Families Days’ season CONTENTS Federation, published 4times ayear. having started off at RAF Valley and RAF Leeming To have your FREE copy delivered with many more in the diary.Soifyou see our quarterly to your home, inflatable gazebo at your station’s event then please Simply subscribe online: do come and see us and have achat. raf-ff.org.uk/publications/envoy-magazine In the summer edition of Envoy last year,you might remember that we Director: Maria Lyle brought to you apiece on the Ty phoon Display Pilot, Flt Lt Jim Peterson (and it really is great news that he is the display pilot for this year as Office Manager: Ruth McClelland well!). This year we have decided to ‘go green’and we bring to you the Communications Manager: Caroline Woodward Chinook Display Te am and Ihope you enjoy the read in our features’ Communications Assistant: Nick Crouch section. In particular meeting co-pilot, Flt Lt Anthony Jewitt and crewman, Operations and Policy Manager: Sgt James Begg (he’ll be the one waving the big foam hand!). Lisa Thipthorp Ifinish with news of an amazing prize draw for you worth £500! Policy Advisor (Health &Additional Needs): Alison Cotton The Victory Services Club has kindly donated to us aprize to win afree Policy Advisor (Education &Childcare): weekend break for one family (up to 2adults and 2school age children). Louise Briggs Ihave to say Ihave enjoyed the odd overnighter Evidence Manager: Richard Coleman there myself and it’s agreat place to stay when visiting London. The staff are super friendly Evidence Assistant: Kenneth Wood as well –and the food... well, I’ll leave you to Evidence Assistant (Accommodation) job perhaps find out for yourself one day.All details share: Stan Brathwaite and Alanna Gleave are in the VSC’s article later on in this magazine. Dispersed Families Project Manager: To rJohnson Front cover: Chinook Mk6A flown by the Chinook Display Te am perform arolling landing at the Published quarterly by Method Publishing, a Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2018. Image Credit: SACPippa Fowles RAF.©UKMOD division of Scottish Provincial Press Limited, on Crown Copyright 2018. behalf of Envoy

Design and Ty pography: ©Method Publishing 2019 CONTENTS Editorial Matter and Illustrations: ©Envoy Printed in Great Britain by: Warners Midlands plc FEATURES Advertisement Office (UK): Method Publishing, 64 Main 14 Flexible Working in the Armed Forces Street, Golspie, Sutherland, KW10 6TG 16 Introducing the Chinook Display Contact Chris Cappie on 01463 732223 or email [email protected] Te am for 2019 19 Promoting our People –RAF Women’s Cricket Captain, Corporal Eli Dey Meet the team. 22 FEDERATION The RAF Families Federation is an independent 22 Meet the new RAF Families HEALTH &WELLBEING organisation parented by the RAF Association Federation Te am 39 RAF Widows’ Association 26 Accommodation Matters 41 Dare to Stop 28 Pilot of new accommodation system 42 Paramotor Pilots fly over 40 RAF at RAF Wittering Stations for charity FINANCIAL 43 Everyone needs abreak 30 Tr ansitioning out of the RAF 44 The Ripple Pond SUPPORTING SPOUSES/PARTNERS 46 Victory Services Club –including an rafa.org.uk 33 Forces Families Jobs: Anew amazing prize draw! Registered charitynumber employment and training platform OF INTEREST England and Wales 226686 Scotland SCO37673 34 Six Years On with the Unsung Hero 48 RAF Central Fund –new CEO 35 Unsung Hero case study –Running Jo Appointment The RAF Families Federation is supported by 36 Supporting the Armed Forces 49 New Chair for Service Children in the RAF Benevolent Fund Covenant –Inzpire State Schools (SCISS) working Group

rafbf.org Registered charitynumber England and Wales 1081009 One of the latest classes – Scotland SCO38109 34 Supporting the Unsung Hero. Covenant signatory –Inzpire. 36 SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 2

Eddie survived D-Day. 75 yearslater,whenhelost his sight, we were there.

When D-Dayveteran Eddie developed maculardegeneration at theage of 91 we helped himrebuild his life. blindveterans.org.uk/eddie

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk delighted to showcase our revamped and heard some really inspiring stories from Serving IAMFamilies Federation team in this issue. Personnel who were either living with serious health 3 We are exceptionally fortunate to have found some great conditions, or were carers for parents or children candidates to join our hard working team, and as you with ahealth condition. We will be closely engaged will see in this issue they are looking forward to meeting with this great initiative, and Iinvite all of you who RAF families and working on your behalf.Amongst other have experiences in this area to contact us and let us things we will be engaged with over this period, Iwant know,aswework with them to better shape policy to DIRECTOR to highlight our Forces Families Jobs platform, where support you. Our new Policy forces friendly employers will be advertising jobs for family Advisor post for Health and members of those in the RAF.This is atri-service project Additional Needs will of and there are already many employers engaged –please course be focussed on this keep an eye on our news feeds and website as we will area, and Alison will bring circulate details when it goes live in September. ahuge amount of relevant Iattended the launch of the Chronic Conditions and experience to lead work Disability in Defence Network in London recently, here. DIRECTORFROM THE

We provide first-classcarefor veterans

Residential nursing care, rehabilitation, Specialist services include respite and award-winning end of life physiotherapy, occupational therapy, care for physically disabled ex-Service neuropsychology, speech therapy, and personnel and their families socialand recreation activities :#B '#BD <%C#B'1><#%*$133 ;@ #% 01903 213458 #B 8<@<> www.careforveterans.org.uk

Care for Veterans CELEBRATING 7?<%A*/D@> 6;@@D(* ,+22 .-0 YEARS 4) 01903 213458 OF CARE =) [email protected] 1919 -2019 The Queen AlexandraHospital Home since1919 RegisteredCharity No. 1072334 SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 4 FOREWORD

Image shows CAS, Sir Stephen Hillier and Lady Hillier celebrating after he returned from the final farewell tour FOREof the Tornado to Scotland.WORD By Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier and Lady Elaine Hillier So hereweare at the end of our time in the RoyalAir Force. It’s over 39 yearssince one of us first walked through the gates of the RAF CollegeCranwell, and 35 years(12,824 days!) since we became amarried couple within the RAF Family. If thatmakes us sound old, it’s about howwefeel after such abusylast 3years!

Along the way,there have been two The reality is that the idea of the RAF (now grown-up) children, 9operational Family has to change over time, as we deployments, and numerous exercises change how we live our lives. Compared and other extended periods of to 30 years ago, our lives do now separation. There have been 15 posting seem more complex, with pressures, notices, we’ve lived on 10 different RAF challenges and indeed expectations that Stations, and we are currently in our 21st could not have been imagined back then. home. There have been the enormous So the RAF Family can only succeed privileges of command at Squadron, by being good at adapting to inevitable Station and Group level, and, now,the change. RAF itself.Wewould never pretend that we understand every aspect of the But it’s not the case that everything has benefits and challenges of RAF Family changed during our time in the RAF life, but we think our experience gives Family.Infact, there’s probably more us at least some insight, so we’d like to that’s the same than is different. The share some parting thoughts with you. spirit, character,ethos and traditions of the RAF are undoubtedly the same: The first is that the RAF Family today is really quite different compared to People with the willingness and ability 3decades ago. Perhaps that’s obvious, to do what it takes to get the job done; and perhaps some might wish us to prepared to volunteer and to put the somehow get back to ‘how it used to needs of others before themselves; ready be’. Well, people were saying the same to develop and make the most of every thing in the 1980s, and they’ll probably opportunity.Where there has been be saying it in decades to come too. change, much has been very positive

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk and welcome: Much increased levels of spousal personally head towards the exit door,wewould 5 employment; greater levels of home ownership; simply offer that the Federation can only succeed more family stability; increasing support to the if everyone in the RAF Family engages with it fully, breadth of family units; the adoption of flexible not only when things go wrong, but in day-to-day employment. But we all know there are just as many experiences, enabling the Federation to make things

challenges to deal with: family separation; the cost easier and better for others. FOREWORD (and availability) of childcare; future accommodation models; medical and dental care; standards of Our final words: We both want to say what an accommodation; special needs education; and, again, enormous privilege it has been for us to be part spousal employment opportunities. of the RAF Family over so many years. It’s been the most incredible journey and we’ll miss it In getting to grips with all these current challenges, enormously,even as we look forward to the next and the new ones which will inevitably emerge in phase of our lives. Not everything in the RAF is the future, we should not under-estimate the quality perfect –noorganisation is -and it’s easy to be and depth of the support which is available to the critical or to forget about all the things that go right. RAF Family,from that which is provided on units, But regardless of where we sit in the RAF Family, formally and informally,through to our Service we are all part of an organisation with atremendous charities and, of course, the RAF Families Federation history,avital role, and avery bright future. We itself.The Federation’s aims of providing support, can be proud of what we all achieve and the part assistance and an independent voice places it right at that we play –everyone in the RAF Family makes the heart of the RAF Family.Itprovides an invaluable an essential contribution. Thank you for all that you connection between the issues being experienced achieve every day and our very best wishes for the across the RAF Family and the Service’s senior future, to each of you individually and to the RAF leadership, and indeed the Government. As we Family as awhole.

Family Friendly

Treatthe family to asightseeing trip to London. Thecityissofull of exciting things to see and do,they’ll justlove it. As an enlistedmember of HM Armed Forces youhaveexclusive access to the Union Jack Club where you’ll enjoyreally comfortable accommodation and will be staying with other people justlikeyou.

02079284814 www.ujclub.co.uk

Union Jack Club Union Jack Club @unionjackclub

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 6 NEWS THE IN News

IN THE 

FutureAccommodation JSP 905isonline Flexible Service Newpolicytoallow Model (FAM): Updatefor all couples to livetogether in personnel surplus SFA

Whatisthe FAMpilot? Apilot is being JSP 905 is the policy documentfor Flexible Service became lawon1April Anew policy has been introduced to developed to help us understand how the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2019, allowing Regularpersonnel of allowcouplesinlong-termrelationships, personnel will choose to liveinthe 2015 and this includesthe Armed the Armed Forces to ask to temporarily including same sexcouples, to live futureand howwecan improveFAM. Forces Early Departure Payments work part-time and/or restrict their together in surplus SFA. Scheme 2015. separation from home base. Dispersed families survey Protection from taxhikes Free socialmedia training RAF HIVEDeployment snapshot extended formilitaryspouses & Information Packs partners

The RAF Families Federation Over 8000armed forces personnel Thanks to generous support from The The RAF HIVE arereviewing the has releasedashort report willcontinue to be protectedfrom Armed Forces CovenantFund Trust, BFBS contents of theRAF HIVE Deployment summarising the experiences of tax rises madebythe Scottish is giving militaryspouses and partners InformationPacksduringthisyear.Input RAF dispersed families,asidentified Government. the chancetoupskill in social media from usersisneeded to ensure the new through aset of online surveys. marketing techniques absolutely free. packscontain required information. ServiceLeaver’s Guide Numbersgrowtoalmosta HistoricJet Provost displays BFPO Trackand Trace app million planned forthe RAF beingwithdrawn Cosford Air Show

The downloadableguidecontains The RoyalAir ForceMuseum is proudto With the RAF Cosford Air Show now BFPO’s Track and Trace app information aboutarmed forces pensions, announce thatits visitor figures enjoyed less than twomonths away,the waswithdrawnfromall online resettlement, reserve liability and support substantial growth on the back of amajor organisershaveannouncedthatthe platformson30th April ‘19. from charitable organisations of use prior redevelopment of its London siteand a eventwillcelebrate 65 yearssince There is nowaservicedesk to and after leavingregularservice. re-invigorated public events programme. the first flightofthe BACJet Provost. numbertocall. Universitiesurged to boost Removing Barriersto Mental health support Training to easeRAF supportfor armed forces Family Life programme training forRAF families Stations’ childcare launched shortage

TwoGovernmentMinisters have The Armed Forces CovenantFund Trust Families of servingRAF personnel Partnersofservingpersonnel at six RAF written to universitiescalling on willmakegrantstoprojects wherethey canbenefit from newtraining to spot stations in the southtofE eas ngland them to stepupprovisions forthe cansee thatthe project is addressing mentalhealth issues, thankstothe cantakeadvantage of free training to forces communityand sign up to aclear need, and wheretheythink the RAF Association. Deliveryoftraining become childminders, thankstoagrant the Armed Forces Covenant. idea will be of practical benefit. courses will begin at RAF Coningsby. secured by the RAF Association.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk Further details on all these stories can be found on 7

raf-ff.org.uk NEWS IN THE Search for the headlines on our website

Wedgetail to be newRAF Newveterans ID cards Working from your SFA Subsidised breaks forserving early warning radar aircraft rolled out to service leavers RAFpersonnel

Defence Secretary Gavin Anew ID card forarmed forces Running asmall business from home The RAF BenevolentFund has Williamsonhas signed a$1.98Bn veterans, whichwill help them makes sense formanyfamilies. It expanded its welfarebreaks deal to purchase fiveE-7 Wedgetail access specialistsupport and offersgreater flexibilityfor those scheme forservingpersonnel to aircraft.The E-7fleetwillreplace services, has started to be issuedto who move frequently, have childcare include locations across the whole thecurrent E-3D Sentryaircraft. service leavers. or other caringresponsibilities. of the UK. RAF Museum launches 2019 Family Activity Fund reachesout to We want to keep everybody Dambusters:virtual reality Breaks (FAB) communicatewith RAF protected experience Family in anew way

The RoyalAir ForceMuseum The aim of FABistoprovide families The RAF BenevolentFund has Check outthe RAF’s newmonthly invites youtotakeaseatonboard withafun andadventurousholiday launchedanew waytocommunicate CyberAwareness campaign launched aLancasterduringthe legendary and the opportunity to meetother with its beneficiaries with aliveweb in associationwithGet Safe Online. Dambusters raid of 1943, using families that have experienced the chatfacility.The webchatcan be The first topic is about ‘Keeping Your Virtual Reality technology. loss of a‘serving’loved one. accessed via the Fund’swebsite. FamilySafeOnline’.

CIVVY STREET NEEDS YOUR HELP. Health &Wellness If you are about to leave the Forces and have Company needs YOU!! time to spare, come and work as apart-time volunteer for charity. Flexible hours -FT work from home The organisational skills you learned can be of vital importance to the success of avoluntary Will suit busy people organisation –and help give you anew lease of life into the bargain! Part time &Full time earnings available REACH provides afree job-finding service throughout the UK and could find you a DRAAddtoyour satisfying, voluntary opportunity nearby. income or replace it Phone for details or visit our website at Immediate start https://reachvolunteering.org.uk Global company Work from the UK or abroad

Call Tr acie or text SMILE 89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP. to have an informal chat Tel: 020 7582 6543 Registered Charity No 278837 07957 421739

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 8

PROTECTTY YOOUURRF FAMILY’S FUTURE FORFREE

The Royal British Legion’sFREE Will Writing service Keepinganup-to-dateWillisthe only waytotakecareofyourfamilyif you’re no longer there. It is The Royal British Legion’spleasure to help members of the +#2*, &.#/*! community do this by offering a FREE Will Writing service.

Youdonot have to include the Legion in your Will to use this service' 6.7*8*#) :$ 1.9 ,. ,*/:,* ;. 5*38* 3":$; ;. ;<* -*":.0) 1.9# 5*"3/1 /.95, <*5% 9! !9%%.#; !*#8:0" 30, *4(!*#8:0" %*#!.00*5 30, ;<*:# $32:5:*!) $.# ;<* #*!; .$ ;<*:# 5:8*!'

Even asmall portion of your Estate could help us provide everything from home adaptations for an injured veteran like Mark Stonelake to specialist dementia care in one of our award-winning Legion Care Homes. Once “It’s a huge you have provided for your loved ones, please consider helping us to be there for members of the Armed Forces family who need us. comfort to know the Legion’s support Find out more or request acopy of our Will Guide at will never stop.” www.rbl.org.uk/freewills Mark Stonelake, who lost his left leg followinganIg an ImprovisedEd Exxpplloossiiveve Contact the Legion’slegacy manager at Device (IED)explosion in Afghanistan. [email protected] or call 020 3207 2253

Choose from up to six independent family solicitors based in your area.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 9 SOCIAL WORK

NEED TO TALK?

SSAFA Personal Support and Social Work Service provides emotional and practical support to Regulars, Reserves andtheir families.

Contact our confidential, independent service, call 03000 111 723

Available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, email [email protected]

Our offices are also open Monday-Friday 08.30-17.00

Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760 in Scotland Number SCO38056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20006082. Established 1885. S337.0119

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy ture Fu olicy conference ap YS report your issue WA riod (at the Defence ttended Pe usy but rewarding couple Ia Ab news UR TEAMS ARE FOCUSING ON Commanders’ Study Academy) and continued to supportDispersed RAF Families, either directly orFacebook through group. our of months, and I look forward to reporting back to you in the next edition as the project continues to develop. areas of focus to includedual Education, serving Childcare, couples, spousal employmentwith along other hot topics. The more evidence we have,more the accurate better picture and we canstronger portray our and argument the to initiateis change needed when so it do pleaseto AL us as well as your unit welfare teams. looking forward to engaging withacross RAF the families world and hearingthat about matter the to issues them, soyou please are do currently get in involved an if returned overseas within posting the or last have 12 months. Alongside all of this in London, represented the RAF FF at the TO ill eally Iw JOHNSON our week Iamr THIPTHORP re looking TOR a60h Ia LISA licy team here ll, not immediately specially if families are Po AN INSIGHT INTO WHA eally pleased that the –e We ncluding meeting with ore detailed piece of ,i MILIES ull team it became clear am Iamr af have been encouraged by FA 2019 ouise, Alison and We hort summary of the main ,L –as raf-ff.org.uk SUMMER y hope to start by bringing to life the differences eries of Family Snapshots will update you on o ave also been planning and writing our As accompanying and if there are SENcare and issues continuity on of top. recent developments in policy change in our key our families face when they movedevolved across administrations the as we know mobilitycause can all sorts of challenges We POLICY – anyway! very quickly that unless we work Ih Since the last edition ofto Envoy have we released are our delighted Dispersedsnapshot Families survey benefits and challenges of dispersedthe living UK, in as reported tofamily us surveys. through our online continue to work on work over the coming months. Overseas Families survey members of Community Support andManagement the team Career at HQ Airpriorities to are ensure aligned. that our Libor team have agreed tothrough extend to the the project end ofcarry the out year this so important that piece we of can work. With three of us nowat in the the RAF FF forward to getting under theissues skin we of know the our main servingfamilies personnel are and facing. Followingstrategy our meeting inaugural as we can’t possible do it all. the positive feedback for the report, and DISPERSED PROJECT – Env

10 SNAPSHOT NEWS VDNE– EVIDENCE ekys laefe ret inu i’ re:raf- free): (it’s up sign to ff.org.uk/publications/register-for-ebulletin/ free feel please growing so are weekly Subscriptions time. the at topical offers holiday military and news, offers station charity and people our also about are stories There September). in launching initiatives that’s new to; along as go you (such or that in events involved includes get It could work! about all not it’s instance) for updates Model Accommodation policies, (new information work-related At of summary once just email an you. for online easy provide members. family our been has weekly our that with So as well clear as and personnel loud us to in comes is easier communications Making – COMMUNICATIONS vdnefo o all! you from serving evidence all about says it missing. RAF what modern see the to in there personnel out sources data personnel different partnerships. serving the civil all or on marriages available in is those data what review to keen of start the potentially touch have Yo in we get when Please behalf issues. your experiencing on be effectively may and as SLA seen in our been live on have all we you time updating but some be SFA, quite to For Manager us. Issues with and log time. Evidence first new the brand for the work as exciting really is It uw pcleBulletin ypical l aese h eso h hne rudSF around changes the on news the seen have ill aq an We Iw aw wepomn n riigplatform training and employment ew udlk ormn vroeta r enyitrse nhaigfo hs who those from hearing in interested keenly are that everyone remind to like ould a nyrpeetyuefcieyi eaecollecting are we if effectively you represent only can tto es military news, station htvri topical is whatever losoisabout stories also hrt fesand offers charity u epeand people our oia fes– offers holiday C ttetime. the at hr are There AROLINE as Ih to rda hne nti ra n eare we and area, this in changes gradual of et v nepne emwrigt epn oayise htyou that issues any to respond to working team expanded an ave ,f ,a WOOD o l ak of ranks all rom –w dt nesadi hr sinformation is there if understand to nd ol include could at aee is hatever eethat heme news. eBulletin mind, in RICHARD WA eindto designed rmus from Re solution Fu e iha with eek ikand uick To RD af ceive ture oti ewl erveigall reviewing be will we this do l itr fteproblems. the of picture ull –b COLEMAN ut Ae as ligibility uc fspotfrtoelvn in living those for support of ource –n –wec tjust ot .T i is his nlbymc more much lobby an SUMMER raf-ff.org.uk 2019 Env o y

SNAPSHOT NEWS 11 Buying a new home now as easy as 1...2...3... with

exclusiveForces Are you in the market for anew home and looking for an exclusive purchase package just for Armed Forces personnel?

Bovis Homes has developments throughout By using Trinity you could buy abrand new Bovis England,including a number that are close to major Home without saving for adeposit –while saving military bases,where we have a range of homes from yourself stress and hidden costs. 2to6bedroom properties in attractive locations. With Trinity you have the opportunity to combine three fantastic standalone schemes: For further information about the Bovis Homes Armed Forces All Inclusive schemes and where we are building, 1 Discount* – £500 off for every £25K of your new home’s price, plus we will please go to – bovishomes.co.uk † include your flooring up to the value The Armed Forces purchase scheme is listed within the of £3,000! ‘Need help to Move’ section and you can find the nearest development to you through our ‘search for anew home’ Help to Buy Equity* –have access to this 2 scheme which is only available on new build homes. It provides aGovernment equity loan of 20% of your new home’s price and pay just a5%deposit!

Forces Help to Buy* –borrow up to 50% 3 of your annual salary, to amaximum of £25,000.This can be used towards the deposit and other costs!

It’s the winning combination to unlock the door to your dream home! bovishomes.co.uk

*The Bovis Homes Armed Forces Discount Scheme has specific terms and conditions. Help to Buy Equity Loan and Forces Help to Buy have specific terms amd conditions and are subject to affordability criteria as prescribed by Homes England and the Ministry of Defence. †Bovis Homes specify the flooring offered within the scheme. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Please ask your sales advisor for further information. Photograph shown depicts a typical Bovis Homes interior. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON AMORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. 13

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 14 LXBESERVICE FLEXIBLE FEATURES

ince 2013 FLEXIBLE Sthe Armed Forces has SERVICE JOINS THE had several Flexible Working Spectrum of Flexible policies, which have enabled hundreds of people Working policies to choose how they do their work; By Squadron Leader Merlin Andrew,SO2 Flexible better able to mould Engagement System, HQ Air Command their commitment to the Service around personal demands. Whilst the tangible differences that these polices make to people’s lives are simplistic in nature, the resulting affect is significant. By creating amore family orientated and From the 1st of April 2019, by using Flexible Service, ‘life friendly’work ethic, people in the Regular Service personnel will be able to apply to Service are increasingly satisfied with temporarily work part-time and/or restrict their the control that they have over their separation from their home unit, which in effect opts working day. them out of deployments beyond 35 days. The options will come with areasonable reduction in salary and Through simply discussing and registering the annual leave based on the type of Flexible Service and arrangement with their boss, Flexible Working has duration of the arrangement, up to 3years in one go, enabled people to; reduce the time they spend in the or 4years in arolling 12-year period. workplace to avoid the rush hour,work from home By first conducting the Flexible Duties Tr ial between to be there when the kids get in from school, work 2016 and 2019, we were able to identify and prove the longer during the week to start the weekend earlier, demand for more predictability where flexibility was or work from another location to be that bit closer to afforded. Subsequently,the organisation wanted to be home to reduce the need to tackle that long commute. sure that any personal arrangements that were put in The policies are really aguide, the length at which they place, particularly childcare, would be honoured with can be adjusted or used in tandem to suit the individual alevel of protection that people could rely upon. The circumstances is simply aquestion of creativity,and resulting feedback indicated that 70% of personnel tolerance within the given workload. That said, despite who had used the Tr ial advised that it had increased Flexible Working options being agreat choice for many their intention to remain in the Service. people, there has long existed athirst for apolicy that gives personnel the option to work less or take In ensuring that these lessons formed the fundamental abreak from the operational deployment cycle. Until principles of Flexible Service, the Armed Forces would now that is… make apositive stride towards amore agile way of

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 15 engaging and retaining people. This would help those “Last summer Ireceived alast-minute notification of an Out- that historically might have pursued alternative job of-Area assignment, causing alot of stress because Iamacarer opportunities that permitted more time with their for my wife who has asevere health condition. This led me FEATURES family or focussing on other interests. to consider my future in the RAF.Ultimately being part of the Flexible Duties trial and now applying for Flexible Service gives “This radical and modernising change provides new

me greater peace of mind because, if operational need allows, FLEXIBLE SERVICE opportunities for our hard-working servicemen and women to I’ll be able to continue to serve without the worry of being balance service commitments with personal responsibilities. deployed at short notice.” In return, our Armed Forces and the UK stand to retain their skills and commitment for longer.” Flight Sergeant Andrew Farr. Rt Hon To bias Ellwood, As the page turns on what has been several years’ Minister for Defence People and Veterans. work to successfully launch Flexible Service, the policy staff at the respective single-Service headquarters By changing the law and introducing the Flexible are not yet ready to hang up their hats. Work in Working Bill it enabled Flexible Service arrangements the coming year has already been set to carve a to be recognised at alegal level; meaning that path through the next stage of the game. As such, personnel can get up-front assurance that the Armed ‘Flexible Engagement System II’ will likely explore Forces will support their pattern of absence or how we employ Reserve Forces and aim to yield more protection from short-term operational demands flexibility for people within those engagement types. wherever possible. Whilst detail is scant at this stage, and the horizon The change in statutory legislation also gives personnel hazy,you can guarantee it’ll be an interesting journey, aright to apply for Flexible Service by law.However, which I’ll look forward to updating you on in the due to the nature of commitments for the Armed months ahead. Forces there remains an expectation that there will remain cohorts within ‘high-touch’ posts that demand more time in aspecified environment, be that for either contact with equipment, other people, or dare I say,the enemy… These types of positions may seldom be compatible with Flexible Service, or Flexible Working on afrequent or uniform basis, however to dampen this rigorous operational demand, the Service also offers agreat number of leave policies to enable individuals to get away from the workplace when they can –meaning that there’s at least something for everyone! In so far as how Flexible Service has been received, it is testament to the desire for such agreat leap in people policy that, when the RAF opened the Flexible Service application window on 1February this year, applications flooded in. Perhaps unsurprisingly,the RAF has found the degree of enthusiasm for Flexible Service expressed by applicants is centred around their family responsibilities and their keen interest to continue serving: “I found out about Flexible Service, which allows me to balance my commitment to the Service with my commitment as amother.Ihave applied to work three days aweek and to restrict my separation from home base. This is good for my family and for me, it gives us the certainty over when and where Iwork, while enabling me to continue in arole that I enjoy and where Ican see the value that Iadd.” Squadron Leader Julia Buckingham, Legal Branch, HQ Air Command.

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 16 16

A HNO DISPLA CHINOOK RAF FEATURES THE RAF CHINOOK DISPLAYTEAM 2019 YT

EAM The RAF Chinook Display Te am 2019 is made up of shows of the speed and lift available from the massive pilots, crewmen and engineers of 18(B) Sqn based engines, and when paired with acrowd centre split, at RAF Odiham. Unlike other displays on the circuit, onlookers can experience the iconic Blade slap. the Chinook Display is staffed entirely by frontline Importantly the Chinook is up-close and personal with personnel, who must juggle their display flying with air show goers, be sure to look out for the crewman their operational training throughout the season. waving from the ramp as it demonstrates its hover and Operations are where the Display is focused, with be sure to wave back! several of the team having recently returned from Op The success of the Display is truly ateam effort, NEWCOMBE in Mali, the Display gives the opportunity alongside the flying crew,every show brings asmall to show why the iconic helicopter is so at home in any army of engineers lead by our Engineering Manager to environment. maintain the Chinook before and after the displays. The Chinook has been deployed on constant operations since 1982 and today aircraft are in Africa, the USA as well as exercises in the UK. Keytoits high demand is how extremely capable and highly versatile the aircraft is, it can be operated from land bases or seaborne vessels into arange of diverse environments, from the Arctic to the desert or jungle. Such alarge aircraft is surprisingly nimble and as you will see from the displays at the families days and air shows, it demonstrates anumber of manoeuvres born out of battlefield requirements, the nose down quick stop allows the aircraft to very quickly perform a180 degree turn to anear standstill, ideal when looking for troops on the battlefield. Fully laden, the Chinook Weighs in at 24 ½Tonnes (The weight of 11 of our Te am Land Rover Discoveries) the Display aircraft (at amodest 15 To nnes inc fuel)

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 17 FEATURES RAF CHINOOK DISPLAY TEAM RAF CHINOOK DISPLAY

Chinook Display Te am 2019 ©Crown Copyright. SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy he ’re –it We .Ont ew dad as well ssell called Lily). an Ru or the first time. as eep going! And if –f nd for both gents. Iw ,a –k as able to see pictures of or it. Their advice to you: ou realise just how the ew Theatre with all the ,y Iw an am love showing people around ,togof Te usband. For Ant, it was the odd bit of raf.mod.uk/recruitment/ ah osition where you are waiting to join, keep nt and James encourage you to go and have a he thing that’s important to us is that it isn’t just ap oing through your head, ithout doubt it was being awarded their Brevets! ike to spend any free time with our families – –A ’g “T he Display stand will be on hand too with all sorts of ad and oes get easier though each time but that was a –w eat idea! he whole Display .T cruitment: ad an –wel “T .Itd Re @rafchinookdisplay @rafchinookdisplayteam ou’re going to and will be in @ChinookDisplay ‘unknown but with your operational crew “Y time being skiing too and also walking his dog (a Jack With James, he manages the odd game of squash with his pals others support you through as most will have been through was being away on an extended period When both aren’t working they both answered at the same information so please come and visit us.” For show dates and to follow them this season: look. the aircraft and talking tothe them RAF about how life is for them in learning things and developing newDon’t skills; just use wait your for time the wisely. next intake slot.” If you have chance tofamilies see day the Chinook at an airshow or and additional time with Labradoodle, Diva. INTERESTED IN JOINING THE RAF? Both Ant and James wereinterested adamant in that joining if the you RAF are remotely “If you don’t get in onyou the end first up round in flip side, the positive tomore this as is the that display we season aredetachments.” itself actually mitigates at us home from summer The families are always keenshared to his go plan and of watch equipping andOrange his James Hands’ family so with that their he ownQuite can ‘Big spot them all during displays. PROUDEST MOMENTS IN THE RAF For both BIGGEST CHALLENGES Now this questions didn’t come easily James went first and added that his greatest challenge so far it themselves in the past.family That’s where we become onechallenge big at the onset of my career.” Ant added, you when you are on your career journey in the military Display Authority (PDA) flight test (atputting time in of some writing). long days to make sure we are ready affects all of your family.” “For me, being away inChristmas Mali and (Op missing NEWCOMBE) the over familyseven was months testing. pregnant My too wife and was scans but not physically being there was hard.” FREE TIME! RAF ts .It –i essage aining (IOT) am Tr irect entrant ilot bursary ad ap apon heir most recent ior to hinooks, working for –t We Pr ood Operation for the RAF roud father to ag ap ears 3Mk5C 2y rm favorite for many. roven workhorse and in Afghanistan nd 10 weeks. Having Afi 2019 lightly different commitment however. ap ench. Normally for their aircraft, what 4a as Fr aughter aged 6 aining Squadron (RTS) at RAF Halton. James uture career for them. Ant always had a on, who’s Tr af his is as –ad ames and Simone have raf-ff.org.uk SUMMER “T EPARATION oth are from Manchester and cruit .J NTHONY JEWITT eek to do with the Chinook, would have taken a Re –b y YS AMES BEGG ench Air Force. This was aw nto their own family home living o Fr TJ MIL TLTA Ai ocal community relatively close to in 2008 and graduated inflying 2009. training He and then made began his his first journey front into lineAnt role is in married 2016. to Diana and is to anyone currently at schoolif or this university could and be wondering massive interest in aviation fromhigh around school mid-way onwards. through So he joined Initial Officer two young girls aged FL Flt Lt Jewitt (Ant) joinedthe the University RAF of in London 2008 Air having Squadron been on part of Co-pilot, Flt Lt AnthonyFamilies Jewitt Federation and about Crewman, their Sgt journeys James into Begg the spoke RAF. to the RAF took him three attempts to get in which in itself is chosen the Chinook, with thisbased type in of limited aircraft locations, thethe family decision took to buy theirthis own they home. had locations inAccommodation Service (SFA) Family and lived the ‘mobile’ experience this lifestyle brings. The main aim now beingal to settle into RAF Odiham where the childrenmake can friends, join local groups etc. SG Sgt Begg joined the RAFinto in the 2009 came in as System Operators so it wasto an apply. easy decision James has been married forSimone 10 years to in Andover they too followed the sameSF route from two children had always admired the Chinookwas and lucky at as the the time RAF he were said recruiting he years old and also. They were inspired bysafe seeing to its say capabilities it and is think the it’s most iconic aircraft that the RAF has WHY THE CHINOOK Both gents were aware ofin the the work Falklands the being Chinook had done old. sound is so distinctive. FA With the Squadron being fullysets operational of at families all are times, used both rotational to deployments Ant and and exercises James being out on The families are experiencing usmoment; doing particularly long in hours the at lead the up to passing the Public took month to achieve the same amount of workAnt for added, them. being Op NEWCOMBE where theypersonnel were of part four of crews some and 90 the as the heavy lift capabilityappreciated that by the the RAF brought to the mix was Env FEATURES 18 RAF CHINOOK DISPLAYTEAM 19 19 FEATURES

PROMOTING OUR PEOPLE: PROMOTING OUR PEOPLE

RAF

LtoR:England Women’s wicket-keeper, Sarah Taylor with Corporal Eli Dey.

“The Women’s game is growing, and we are growing alongside. The future is veryexciting for us”

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.ukraf-ff Envoy Call us for your quote GreatValueInsurance forall servingand retired membersofour Forces

Coverincludes: Coverincludes: !wY\_Zrrs t^Y\Zr[~ t\nqY[n_p !T^`]\ror_[nXr ]^knt~ kn`nZ[ ]]\^Xrs \r]n\r\[ !bdV_s T_s Y] Z^ _s !er]ktr`r_Zk^tl[ Y] Z^ agzz nq lr~[ includingage 75 arelostorstolen !bv|€[rs tkn`[ Zr` !w\rr_xkpih|o^Y\ bv \^s[nsr ih|o^Y\r`r\pr_t~ork]kn_r{ €\rls^_[[n[Z_tr_s \rt^Xr\~ ! !urpk]\^ZrtZn^_Y]Z^ajzz}zzz{

If your policy is duewithin 30 days, Coverincludes: call us on 01622766960 quoting !UYnksn_p[t^Xr\ ^q Y] Z^ ‘Forces’ to seeifwecan save you £1,000,000 money on your insurance. !T^_Zr_Z[ t^Xr\^qY]Z^ £100,000 Alternatively,for moreinformation !x\rr o^`r r`r\pr_t~t^Xr\ visit www.csis.co.uk !Standard excess £50and aigz q^\r[t]r^qZr\{ Termsand conditions apply Authorised andregulatedbythe Financial Conduct Authority. Carand HomeInsurance is underwrittenand W__tr ]\^Xnsrs €~ ƒY\nto ‚_[Y\_tr]kt{c\Xrk‚_[Y\_tr n[ Y_sr\\nZZr_€~yc‚|‚_Zr\_Zn^_k c\Xrk f\^ZrtZn^_{ Ourawards

AUTUMN 2018

GOLD RIBBON CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Car insurance SIERRA.ALPHA.VICTOR. ECHO.

We’repe proudtood to offer ccuurrrrentat and formformeerr mimilliittaarryy peperrssoonnelnnel savingsso onns selecteddv vehicles.†

Search: Ford Military Sales

†Selected vehicles only.Eligibility criteria applies. Seeford.co.uk/militarysales formore information.

Modelshown is aFiestaST-33-Door1.5 200PSManual Petrol with optional Full LEDHeadlamps. Fueleconomy mpg (l/100km):Combined 40.4 (7.0).*CO2 emissions136g/km.

Figuresshown arefor comparabilitypurposes; only compare fuel consumption andCO2figureswithother cars tested to thesametechnicalprocedures.These figuresmay notreflectreallifedriving results,which will depend upon a numberoffactors includingthe accessoriesfitted(post-registration), variationsinweather,driving styles andvehicleload. *Thereisanew test used forfuelconsumption and CO2 figures. TheCO2figuresshown,however, arebased on the outgoing test cycleand will be used to calculatevehicletax on first registration. 22 EEAINTEAM FEDERATION FEDERATION

Maria Lyle Ruth McClelland Director Office Manager

Ijoined the RAF As Office Manager Families Federation Iamoften the first in late 2018 after point of contact and avaried career - am responsible for all including serving in aspects of the office the RAF,working in including health &safety, leadership roles in local and central government, travel requirements and and most recently as a resources. Director for alarge IT Operations specialist. Having been married to a'Heavy' for over 30 years I Iampassionate about voicing the concerns of Serving followed my husband around and have encountered Personnel and families to policy makers and senior the ups and downs of changes in my career path. leaders, and trying to ensure that the Federation Working any job around family life with flexibility to team represents you all. Whether you are single, in accommodate the RAF requirements of my husband. I arelationship, have children –orhave other caring worked in abank (cleaning lol) and various shops, pubs responsibilities –the Federation is here for you and and offices. Ispent nearly 15 years in prisons, working wants to understand your experiences and challenges. in various departments and have successfully pulled all Please get in touch and raise issues with us via the ‘log an issue’ route on the website. It really does make a this experience together and utilise these skills in this difference. position.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 23 FEDERATION FEDERATION TEAM

Caroline Woodward Communications Manager

Ihave been at the Families Federation now for nearly five years having worked previously in various comms and marketing roles in the third sector from organisations such as the Young Nick Crouch and Farmers' Clubs through to more recently sight loss Caroline Woodward. organisations -RNIB and Guide Dogs. Iabsolutely love promoting the work of the Nick Crouch Families Federation through our many channels. (Nick even says that if I'm not out on the road Communications Assistant for at least one day aweek, Ican be apain to work with!). This includes sharing what news and Istarted my career as an apprentice draughtsman services are out there in the wider armed forces and my working life has been in avariety of industries community which personnel and families can tap and roles from working on gas pipelines to the MOD into (there are hundreds!). Istill feel lucky to be (RAF). Latterly,for almost 20 years, Iearnt my living the editor of Envoy -our free quarterly magazine in the publishing and marketing sectors, which stood and by having my feelers out and gathering me in good stead for my current position. My tasks content, there is still so much to listen to and learn at the Federation include graphic design, gathering about life in the RAF! and posting news onto the RAF FF website and transmitting via social media and our eBulletin.

To rJohnson Dispersed Families Project Manager Iwas recruited to the RAF Families Federation to manage the Dispersed Families project, starting in June 2017. Having left the RAF in 2006 Ispent ten years working in education management, enjoying living in our own home whilst my serving husband commuted to various postings. These former careers gave me abroad range Follow us on the following of skills and experiences –from managing change programmes to interior design! social media platforms But it is my personal understanding of life as adispersed RAF family that has @raf_ff been most beneficial since joining the Families Federation. Although we @RAFFamFed are spending our current tour back in quarters Iamstill passionate about raffamsfed championing the needs of those families who are not living in quarters, or who RAF Families Federation have been allocated accommodation away from their station.

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 24 EEAINTEAM FEDERATION FEDERATION

KenWood, Alanna Gleave, Richard Coleman and Stan Brathwaite.

Richard Coleman KenWood Evidence Manager Evidence Assistant

Iwas fortunate enough to join the RAF Families Istarted in the Families Federation in April 2019 and am Federation in April 2019 as the Evidence and Issues looking forward to the role and being one of the main Manager.After 22 years’ service with the British Army and points of contact for serving personnel or families who ashort 18 month experiment with teaching within Further contact us with concerns or enquiries. Education, Iwas looking for arole that could utilise my Iwas in the Royal Air Force for 22 years as aMechanical Joint Services management experience. Having completed Tr ansport Driver from 1987 to 2008 and in this time I seven years of tri-service roles, experience has taught me served in various roles and units including RAF Innsworth, that things rarely change if people facing specific challenges HQ AFCENT in the Netherlands in aNato position, RAF do not express their concerns. As an independent voice Henlow and RAF Saxa Vord. Ialso completed various for all Serving Personnel and families we collate evidence out of area tours throughout my career.After leaving the in an attempt to inform and influence those in aposition RAF Iwent to work at HMP Peterborough in various to implement change. Things will get better if we speak roles from aPrison Officer to an Offender Supervisor. with one voice. Finally working in aPublic Protection department working alongside the Police and other outside agencies such as Probation and Children’s Services. Stan Brathwaite Alanna Gleave Accommodation Assistant (job share) Accommodation Assistant (job share) With 38 years as acommunications electronic engineer Ijoined the Families Federation in March 2019 after in the RAF and afurther three years in the same roles spending some time as afull-time Mum. Previously I as acontractor in the MOD, at all of the very interesting served in the RAF,leaving as aSquadron Leader in the Isolated Detachments has sculpted ahighly polished cynic Personnel branch. Ialso spent time working for the of all things establishment-related. However as ayoung Stabilisation Unit, atri-departmental (DfID, FCO and thrusting Corporal, the moves between five stations, eight MOD) government unit in central London. MQs and Hirings and the associated family disruption in a Married to an ex-RAF Officer,and having served myself, nine-year period was the last straw that saw me and my Ihave lived in almost every RAF accommodation type, wife scrambling into the private housing market. That was from SFAand SSFAtoSLA and SSSA. As aresult, Ihave the precursor for the mortgage rates to rise exponentially, apersonal understanding of many of the issues and 15% or more, oops! We stoically dug in and survived. frustrations regarding accommodation which are often Does this qualify me to represent families? Youmight raised with the Families Federation. think not, however in my defence, Ifind it aprivilege to assist RAF families and serving personnel, especially as a number of organisations seem to need more than agentle reminder of the very important role that you all play in the defence of the realm.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk Alison Cotton Lisa Thipthorp Louise Briggs Policy Advisor (Health Policy and Policy Advisor 25 &Additional Needs) Operations Manager (Education &Childcare)

Iamdelighted to be taking up Imade the natural move from Ihave worked for the RAF Families FEDERATION this role with the RAF Families RAF Association Welfare Project Federation since October 2016, initially Federation and using my Manager to the RAF Families as the Tr ansition Liaison Manager,ona FEDERATION TEAM knowledge and experience to Federation in 2015 and have funded project collaborating with the benefit members of the RAF and enjoyed every minute (well, Naval and Army Families Federation to their families. Iammoving out mostly!) since Iarrived. To be part produce areport. This report was about of education, where Ihave had a of acommitted team of experts families’ experiences of transition to civilian full career as ateacher and SEN whose purpose is to make life life, called ‘Lifting the Lid on Tr ansition – specialist. better for our serving personnel the families’ experience and the support and their families is avery good they need.’ The work was funded by the In March 2019, Ialso completed a reason to get out of bed in the Forces in Mind Tr ust and was published in three year MSc in Global Military morning! November 2018. Veterans and Families Studies Since March 2019, Ihave been in this new at Anglia Ruskin University.My Being the Policy and Operations role as Policy Advisor for Education and studies included reviewing the Manager has allowed me to Childcare and am thoroughly enjoying research around the area of the get closer to some of the vast working in this new field, understanding psychological impact of deployment number of research projects policy and initiatives and helping RAF on military personnel and the being conducted around the serving personnel and families in this mental health of children who have country (and abroad). Research key area that impacts so many.This also aparent who has been deployed. and evidence is at the heart of nicely utilises my professional background My final assignment focussed on the everything we do so it is vital in Higher Education administration and importance of educating healthcare that we work closely with these management. professionals, such as GPsand institutions. Happily,academics After growing up as amilitary child, Iam Nurses, to have an awareness of are very keen to ensure the voice now amilitary wife –married to aserving the military lifestyle and culture of the family is heard and we are RAF Officer since 2002 with two children. and to understand how it may keen to ensure work is ongoing Last year,myhusband left regular service impact on military personnel and in the policy areas where greatest and joined the full time reserve service and their families’ lifestyle, health and change and most significant we are now settled in Lincolnshire enjoying behaviour. positive impact is felt. anew lease of life with stability and the ability to actually plan life!

Alison Cotton, Lisa Thipthorp and Louise Briggs.

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 26 AC FEDERATION COMMOD ACCOMMODATION AT O MATTERS ION MATTERS by Stan Brathwaite, RAF FF Accommodation Specialist

The past six months has been exceptionally busy with aflurry of accommodation meetings, visits and initiatives. The grandly titled Accommodation Delivery Forum and the Service Family Accmmodation (SFA) Communications Group meetings were chaired by the Head of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) with all the usual stakeholders in attendance including the Chief Executive Officer of Amey,the RAF Housing Colonel and staff from Community Support Air Command. Those present also included representatives of the families federations (our new Director Maria attended for us) and Defence topics discussed were the current SFA/Single Personnel and Veterans on anumber Living Accommodation (SLA) maintenance of occasions, and with the other contract, the delivery of that service and the family federation leaders was grilled push-back from families. We are confident that by the House of Commons Select Committee; a we forcefully and accurately reflected your views and highly tense and nerve-racking televised occasion - concerns worth awatch through Parliament UK’s website if you especially get aspare few minutes. Separate evidence was also those raised submitted to Mr Andrew Selous MP for the review he by you by is conducting for the Secretary of State for Defence way of our on how military families are supported. website and by And ‘so what’ Ihear you say,has all this high profile telephone. and intensive level of activity achieved? Well as you can expect, the answer is not always immediately Maria has obvious, and based on my personal experience also met progress can be slow at best; there are no real-time with the or quick fixes, so please be patient. Ican however Minister highlight below those areas where there has been for resounding progress and success.

What are the current rules for Cohabitation in Surplus SFA? CO-HABITATION All non-entitled regular and Full Time Reserve Service (FTRS) Aquaint term from adifferent age, which places severe (FC) SP are currently eligible to apply for Surplus SFAat entitlement limitations on 21st century families. The policy has entitled rates where availability of surplus SFApermits, been relaxed in recent months following constant campaigning however,JSP 464 policy currently prevents these SP from over the years by us and other agencies. Basically the easing of cohabiting. In addition, entitled PStat Cat 2SP, are also not the policy relies on the Serving Person providing proof of the permitted to cohabit in their SFA. period of time that they have been in a‘Long Te rm Relationship What are the changes to cohabitation? (LTR)’ and crucially,the location of where they seek SFA, this To be eligible to cohabit in surplus SFA, SP will have to have in turn is simply down to ‘the availability of SFA’.Asyou will be completed more than 4years of Service and be in an established aware, ‘availability’means that in some locations the change Long-Te rm Relationship (LTR(E)). An LTR(E) will be defined by in rules will not offer achange in circumstances. Incidentally specified criteria and recorded as such on JPA. No entitlement this change in policy is one strand on the path to the Future exists to accommodation or eligibility to any other supporting Accommodation Model (FAM). payments or allowances based on the LTR(E) status.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk SUB-LETTING The current size and cost of the Defence estate is not part of the NHP contract. Private tenants are not given any 27 sustainable, including the cost of maintaining empty preferential treatment within the process, any issues or service homes. MOD and DIO are undertaking anumber complaints will be dealt with by Amey in accordance with of initiatives to address these issues. In addition to other the process and the normal contracted response repair times initiatives such as disposals, asub-let project began 2017 continue to apply. ION MATTERS FEDERATION

with the aim of generating income through short-term Investment for improving service homes will continue AT lets, whilst providing flexibility to meet the future needs of to be targeted at homes occupied by service families. Defence. Revenue raised by this project is returned to the DIO as part of its overall running and investment in the estate; The majority of sites are sub-let via DIO’s contractor Amey. COMMOD

95% of the income is reinvested by DIO directly in SFA AC SFAidentified for sublease are available on the open private upgrade work across the portfolio benefitting all top level rental market via Amey’s letting agent Orchard &Shipman budgets (TLBs). The remaining 5% is passed to the local (O&S). Potential tenants are subject to normal credit checks chain of command for reinvestment in infrastructure, but and reference checks. to the local commander’s own priorities –therefore it will Maintenance of SFAatthese sites, whether military or be targeted to where it is needed most to meet the needs privately occupied, continue to be carried out by Amey as of Defence.

FUTURE DEFENCE INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES (FDIS) The FDIS suite of contracts will provide Regional Accommodation Maintenance Services, National Accommodation Management Services, Regional Hard FM maintenance Services and aNational Tr aining Estate contract. They will provide facility FUTURE ACCOMMODATION The main aim of the Pilot is to finesse management services across the UK Defence estate, replacing MODEL (FAM) AND FAM the concepts that formed the basis of the FAMstrategy.This will also define the existing arrangements when they PILOT operating procedures, the support that come to an end. Each contract We are also pleased to advise that has to be put in place and of course the will be seven years in length, more significant information has been impact on the current allowances policy. with options to extend up to a shared with us by the FAMTeam at the In this issue of Envoy you will find the further three years, subject to Ministry of Defence (MOD). Plans for update that we received from the FAM satisfactory performance and other the FAMPilot are well advanced and it is Te am back in April. We will endeavour considerations. The framework anticipated that it will commence at RAF to update you in atimely manner of from which the competition will be Wittering. The pilot will last for in excess progress on our website. If you have any run has been successfully awarded, of three years to fully understand all the specific concerns or questions on any with the competition for the FDIS challenges, so in reality it will be some aspect of the FAMproject, do please contracts being run at the end of years before the roll-out to all serving contact us and we will pass them on to the summer. personnel and their families commences. the FAMTeam. FINALLY Meanwhile in the real world of SLA and SFA, complaints -and complaints about complaints, around the delivery of maintenance continues to dominate our in-trays. We urge you to come to us when you have aproblem about SLA or SFA, even if you have resolved it. I would be curious to know if you have complimented Amey staff and operatives on agood level of service that you had received -itisalso useful to hear these side of things. We are reminded, at meetings, and with the surveys that DIO and Amey commission, that at least 95% of families in SFAare satisfied, so please let me have your take on this. And in the next issue and onwards Iampleased to say that you will see ajoint article from Alanna and I–mynew job share team member.Alanna is also asubject matter expert (SME) on all things relating to accommodation and you can meet her in our federation’s team profile section in this edition of Envoy.

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 28 Pilotofnew accommodation PILOT FEDERATION system at RAFWittering

TheMOD’s Future AccommodationModel (FAM)islookingathow theMOD canprovide housingtopersonneloverthe next 50+ years.Apilothas been developedtohelpunderstandhow forces families will choosetoliveinthe future,and howFAM canbeimproved. It’s achancefor theMOD to testthe policyand theway itsdelivered before adecisionismadewhether to rollit outacrossthe UK. Where andwhen? Theconfirmed forthe type of accommodationyou pilotsitefor RAFfamilies is RAF want to receive(subjectto Wittering, with thepilotcommencing availability) – seebelow.Ifyou’ll 31st May2020. already be at RAFWitteringwhenthe pilotstartsthenyou won’tneed to What if we’re posted to RAF move unlessyou want to. Wittering? You’ll be updated as the pilotcontinuestobedeveloped.You Nonpilotsites Thepilotisexpected canfindout moreonthe FAM to runfor around threeyears before .gov.ukpagewhich will be adecisionismadeabout whether to continuously updated,and thefull rollitout across theUK. If this is JSPwill be publishedthissummer confirmed, themajorityofbases are expected to transition to FAM over Pilotoptions If you’re posted to RAF thefollowing decade.Tofindout Witteringand your servingpartner more, search‘FAM’ on .gov.uk, hasfewer than four years service watch theFAM videoonYouTube, then current policywill continue to speaktochain of command, or talk apply. If they have four years or to your HIVEorRAF-FF–www.raf- morethenyou will be able to express ff.org.uk apreference

Rent near work Buyahome (50miles)  You canchoosetorentahome  You canbuy ahome, whether youare equivalent to SFA forbroadly thesame single or in arelationship personalcost  If youbuy ahomeonceassignedtoa  You canrent in thelocationofyour pilotsite youwill get thenew core choice,with thepeopleyou want to accommodationpaymenttowards live with your mortgagepayments  If youneedtoleave atenancyearly for  You canalsomakeuse of Forces Help MODreasons,MOD will pick up the To Buy cost

Single Living ServiceFamily Accommodation Accommodation  SLAwill continue to be availablefor all  If youare in alongtermrelationship personnel youcan applyfor SFA at apilotsite (subjecttoavailability)  If youcurrently own or rent your own home andget theGet You Home  SFA will notbesoldaspartofthe pilot (Travel) (GYH(T)) allowance, youcan  Personnel assignedtoapilotsite useyournew accommodation choosingSFA canretaintheircurrent payment forSLA in theworkingweek entitlement (subjecttoSFA availability)

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 29

STANDING SIDE BY SIDE WITH THERAF FAMILYFOR 100YEARS

If youserve or have served with theRAF, youand your family canrequest help.

FREE CALL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE EMOTIONAL WELLBEING 0800169 2942 WELLBEINGBREAKS INDEPENDENT LIVING rafbf.org/help FAMILYAND RELATIONSHIPS TRANSITION

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy hich are irrevocable once –w ient as it reduces ‘earned income’. ient as it reduces ‘earned income’. c nsion Society yal Air Force there may well be Pe er can choose to buy another lump sum and pay pay and sum lump another buy to choose can er c Ro rere as as follows: follows: -a-a qualify, individuals must have given at least 18 years’ individuals must have given at least 18 years’ qualify, nsion (IP) having given 22 years Reckonable Service (RS) Service (RS) nsion (IP) having given 22 years Reckonable he AFPS 05 EDP scheme provides an automatic tax- FPS 15 does not provide an automatic pension lump FPS 15 does not provide an automatic pension lump FPS 75 provides an automatic tax-free lump sum of lump sum of FPS 75 provides an automatic tax-free FPS 05 provides an automatic tax-free lump sum of To service and must be at least age 40. There are no options in respect of this lump sum. T free lump sum normally worth three times the pension. A sum.sum. The pension is payable on discharge with an ill- The pension is payable healthhealth pension, on discharge on or after age 60 or at state on pension, discharge on with discharge an on ill- pensionpension age, if discharged before age 60 and, when it is or age, after if age discharged 60 before or age at 60 state and, when it is A with an Immediate three times the pension. Those leaving Pe years RS after age 21 or 16 after age 18 as an Other Rank Offi an as their retirement for it from their pre-tax pension between Commutation and age 55. This is known as Resettlement and can be tax-effi This is not available to those leaving with an invaliding pension. A three times the pension. It is payable on discharge with an ill-health pension, discharge at or after age 55 or age 65 if discharged before age 55 and, when payable, individuals may choose to give up some or all of this lump sum to improveimprove their taxable pension. This is known as inverse their taxable pension. Thiscommutation (IV). IV may increase the member’s tax bill is known as inverse as it increases ‘earned income’. • • The lump sums and the options – which are irrevocable once TheThe lump sums and the options – which lump sums and thetakentaken options • • tley of the Forces Pe choices that will have tounderstand be them. made about lump sums and it is important that you As your family moves towards leaving the SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk oy In this article Mary describes the choices and their implications.

Env

out of the TRANSITIONING FINANCIAL

30 TRANSITIONING OUT OF THE RAF Mary Petley ©FPS. 31

TRANSITIONING FINANCIAL

RAF TRANSITIONING OUT OF THE RAF

payable, any member can commute –t– thathat is they may Had he been an AFPS 05 member before 1April 2015, he generate a tax-free lump sum by surrendering pension. would be entitled to the following: Commutation may have the effect of reducing tax liability AFPS 05 pension and lump sum, preserved until age 65. as it reduces ‘earned income’. The pension would be FPP xRSinAFPS 05, divided by 70 • T he AFPS 15 EDP scheme provides an automatic tax-free (£40,000 x17/70 =£9,714.29). The tax-free lump sum lump sum of 2.25 times pension. To qualify, individuals must would be £29,142.87. When he claims this pension, his IV have given at least 20 years’ service and must be at least choice is that for every £100 of his tax-free lump sum he age 40. The whole EDP lump sum – all or nothing – can gives up, his taxable pension will be improved by £6.10 per be surrendered to improve their EDP income which may year.So, if Freddie surrendered the whole of his tax-free increase tax liability by increasing ‘earned income’. pension lump sum his taxable pension would increase by Most Servicemen and women have entitlements in more than £1,777.72. one scheme, having been transferred to AFPS 15. IwI willill use An AFPS 05 EDP tax-free lump sum of £29,142.87 and an the example of Sergeant FrFreddieeddie Fox to illustrate the benefitbenefi t annual EDP income of 50% of the value of his AFPS 05 choices that need to be made in such cases. pension, rising to 75% at age 55 plus CPI increases. Freddie Freddie joined on 1A1 Aprilpril 1998 and he is to be discharged on has no choice to make in respect of this EDP lump sum. 31 March 2020 at age 40 (exactly 22 years’ service). His finalfi nal pensionable pay (FPP) is £40,000. Had he been an AFPS 75 member prior to 1April 2015, he would be entitled to the following: His AFPS 15 benefits and choices would be: An AFPS 75 IP of £8,919.06, which is 17/22nds of the An AFPS 15 pension, payable at state pension age, based 22 year rate for aSergeant. The tax-free lump sum is on pensionable earnings since 1April 15. Taking account of £26,757.18. The most he can commute is the difference earlier rates of pay and incorporating the Earnings Index, between the 22 year lump sum for aSergeant (£33,948) his pension would be £4,198.44. When he comes to claim and the lump sum for aSergeant with 37 years’ service this pension he can choose to commute to generate alump (£51,723) –so£17,775. So, if Freddie took the whole sum –rule of thumb: £1 surrendered generates £12 tax free. £17,775, his pre-tax pension would be reduced by To calculate the maximum lump sum he can generate: £1,714.40 per year (£96.45 per £1,000) until age 55 when his pension will be restored to its original level Multiply the pension by 20 and divide by 56 =£1,499.44 and increased by CPI. The cost per £1K is based on his THEN age on discharge. The full table of costs is at Annex Bof Multiply £1,499.44 by 12 =£17,993.28 bit.ly/2JzrwCK. Youwill pay back more than you borrow The remaining pension would be (£4,198.44 -£1,499.44) but, if you are a40% tax payer,the cost may well be =£2,699. totally off-set by the saving on tax.

An AFPS 15 EDP tax-free lump sum of £9,446.49 (2.25 x If you are aMember of the Forces Pension Society and have pension) and an annual EDP income of £1,427.47 (34% of questions about lump sum choices or any other pension related pension) payable until state pension age, with CPI increases issue, contact [email protected] applied at age 55. If he gave up the EDP tax-free lump sum If you are not aMember but would like to learn more about us, his taxable EDP income would increase by £542.44 per year. visit forcespensionsociety.org

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 32

LAND YOURSELF A£10,000 DISCOUNT!

Makeyour move and makeabig saving -there’sagenerous £10,000 discount on offer, plus free carpets throughout availableonselected homes at Colwell Green exclusivelyfor RAF personnel.

These high-specification homes arethe perfect placefor youtoput down some roots. Situated in the market town of Witney, with the beautiful Cotswolds countryside on the doorstep, Colwell Green is less than 7miles from RAF Brize Norton, and within 30 miles of RAF Benson and RAF Weston-on-the-Green. Highlyrated schools and dailyamenities are within easy reach, and Oxfordisabout 38 minutes’drive* whileboth London Paddington and Oxfordcan be reached by train in justoveranhour.

3bedroom houses from £349,950 |4bedroom houses from £544,950

Find us next to WitneyLakes Resort Marketing suiteand showhomes open daily10am to 5pm Downs Road |Witney|Oxfordshire|OX29 0SY

www.crestnicholson.com/colwellgreen 01993 648001

*Terms and conditions apply. Applicabletoselected plots only, forreservation made on or before30th September 2019. The discount will given as alump sum upon legal completion. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.For further details please speak to asales advisor.Distanceand travel times takenfromGoogleMaps. Digital illustration is indicative only. Pricing correct on 23.04.19.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk h re Forces. Armed the to commitment their to demonstrate able are or Covenant Forces Armed the signed have employers that knowing in confidence with friendly family forces are who organisations and companies with opportunities training and employment access and jobs for Apply offer. the in included also forces, are armed the of out of transition year first their during Service, Pe opportunities. volunteering or training employment, for search their in personnel serving current of members family support specifically to is designed and use to free is It’s September. in launch will which platform training and employment new A An sne h r evn the leaving are who rsonnel trainingand platform ab adnwwbiewhich website new rand olcieyt ul a build to collectively working are federations families three ll –F re aiisJb – Jobs Families orces .U

eti website this se employmentew rvddfrom provided We SUPPORT AND FUNDING launch. when we for readiness in profiles their submit to covenant Forces Armed the signed have who companies encourage and content the develop to organisations key other and (DRM), team Management Defence the with We SO recommendations. key the of one was platform employment of University the with partnership in run was It employment. spousal into project research the from published Federation year Last RESEARCH for. recruiting to they’re CV roles your the match to able be will employers turn In (ERS). standards gold or Employment silver bronze, the met have who organisations for easily Search Wa r rtflfrfunding for grateful are closely working been have FA wc;teceto fan of creation the rwick; R… ,t eAm Families Army he Re af onto Scheme cognition wognstos– organisations ew Re lationship ar eport bit.ly/FFJemployers form: profile Employers FFJs. on job vacancies their advertising be will businesses who the of some about Envoy out of issue next the In email [email protected] or 781650 01780 on questions any with Federation the Families at RAF Caroline to talk or media social Search on grows. #forcesfamiliesjobs it as platform news the for on eBulletin our to up Sign PROGRESS THE FOLLOW Wo of University the and Manpower The Charity ABF Soldier’s include writing) of time (at supporters Other development. website’s the of elements funded has who Association Forces Air the being sponsor key one lverhampton. ,B oden DRM, roadbean, ,fi Ro nd yal

SUPPORTING SPOUSES/PARTNERS FORCES FAFAMILIESMILIES JOBS 33 34

I ER ON YEARS SIX SPOUSES/PARTNERS SUPPORTING SIX YEARS ON - -S

POTN PUE NBUSINESS IN SPOUSES UPPORTING supporting spouses IN BUSINESS

‘Supporting the Unsung Hero’ (SUH) is the award winning business start-up programme from the University of Wolverhampton and Black Country Chamber of Commerce. This year it enters its sixth year helping members of the armed forces community turn bright ideas into successful businesses.

As one of the original successful bids to the £35million LIBOR new business collaboration and skills sharing. fund in 2013, the programme has been in high demand from Sarah added: “SUH is so much more than just atraining spouses and dependants of serving armed forces personnel, programme, there are many inspirational stories and fantastic veterans and reservists to help them realise their ambition achievements worthy of celebration, the community network to start-up and develop abusiness. Now in its sixth year, is very supportive and has made areally positive impact on the and sponsored by HSBC the training course and mentoring lives of many of our members. Importantly it has had apositive programme continues to grow in popularity and has already impact on the MOD’s employment model, spousal support been attended by 640 delegates at Ministry of Defence (MOD) policy and initiatives.” bases in the UK and overseas. Sarah Walker,Project Manager and Armed Forces Champion said: “Wehave come along way since our For more information about and to sign up for the programme first cohort in 2013 run from here at the University of contact their friendly team: Wolverhampton. To date we have delivered thirty courses Te lephone: 01902 321 272 throughout the UK from Scotland to Portsmouth and overseas Email: [email protected] in British Forces Germany,Belgium, Gibraltar and Cyprus. Website: wlv.ac.uk/supportingtheunsunghero It is overwhelming to see that we have been able to positively influence more than 640 armed forces families who have gone on to start their business journey,with many now entering their third and fourth year of trading.” Over the years SUH has been fine- tuned to become the leading, FREE business training programme designed specifically to meet the needs of armed forces families and has become widely acknowledged and appreciated for its delivery of first class coaching, setting the benchmark for business training provision for the service community.SUH is recognised as the springboard to entrepreneurship in the military community and has created opportunities for wider engagement with the MOD contributing to several research consultations relating to spousal education and employment. It has also enabled anew community of military entrepreneurs to network, support each other and in some cases this has led to

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 35 RUNNING JO

RUNNING JO SUPPORTING SPOUSES/PARTNERS RAF spouse, Jo Wilkinson enrolled on one of the Unsung Hero courses to springboard her business into reality.

Running takes hard work, focus final day of the course was by far the hardest and most nerve- and determination and to be wracking part of the course but it has been the most useful successful you need good advice exercise of all. The ability to sum up what Ioffer and how I and support. Running your own can benefit you as my customer has been something Ihave business is no different and the used on almost adaily basis whether responding to emails or Supporting the Unsung Hero (SUH) meeting new people. Programme has been central to setting me on the right track for my running So what is Running Jo? coaching business ‘Running Jo’. Before Do you want to run fitter, the course Ithought what Ineeded run further or run fast but most was practical information about work, family and life get in how to write business plans and do the way? As an experienced, accounts but SUH made me realise knowledgeable ex-GB athlete that developing the right mindset was as important to being Iknow the challenges you face successful in business as doing the right things. So what the top because Ihave faced them four most helpful things Ilearnt from the course? myself.Myremote coaching 1. The aim of business is to make money -otherwise it’s just a packages bring my experience hobby.This mental shift has been the biggest change for me and enthusiasm to your running. but early on Irealised this was essential. When you are doing Yougu getet apa personalisedersonalised training something that you love it’s easy to forget to the purpose programme which fits around of your business is to make your living and you can’t do that your commitments whether you run every day,once aweek or unless you make some money.Conversely making money it varies week to week. More than just aplan, Igive you as much enables me to spend more time doing what Ilove. coaching, guidance and feedback as you need, motivation to get 2. Ihave to spend as much time on the business as Ido out of the door,focus on your goals, and belief in your ability to coaching. In the early days that meant writing business plans run as fit, as far and as fast as you want. and working out finances. Now its marketing, accounting To find out how Ican help your running contact me on and developing next year’s business plan. Before Istarted [email protected], look up my Facebook the course, Ithought Iwould spend all my days coaching page Running Jo Coaching and follow me on Instagram and and ‘business stuff’filled me with dread. Now Ienjoy the twitter @runningjo10k business-side as much as the coaching as Ican see the huge benefits it brings to making my business successful which in turn enables me to spend more time coaching. 3. Market research is essential. Youhave to be confident that people will actually pay money for your services or you won’t have abusiness. Inspired by the course one of the most useful early steps was to arrange amarket research evening with afew friends who met my ‘target customer’criteria. Iplied them with champagne and good food and listened to what they had to say.Their feedback has been invaluable in shaping how Ioperate and greatly improved how Imarket myself and Running Jo. 4. Be able to communicate clearly and concisely who you are and what you do. The two-minute “elevator pitch” on the SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy iverse, talented ear career in he hope that an categorically oined the ad .Ic ,int ,Ij a15y ilitary spouse to ensure am ow utilising not only my service of choice. of choice. to being an employer to being an employer rust and respect back into the military- and we are committed and we are committed .Iamn ,t of an amazing company of an amazing company vision. Being part of Inzpire is about being part vision. Being part of Inzpire is about being part believe that success is based on trust, proven work closely with our military colleagues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our military only the highest calibre individuals who share our only the highest calibre individuals who share our honour industrial relationship, and be respectedfor not our just outstanding products andthe services way but we for conduct ourWe business commercially. performance and doing the right thing. We give back our experience, provideand innovation deliver capability to thoseput that themselves voluntarily in harm’s way they may return safely toWe their families, as we did. colleagues as part of therecognising Whole the Force, sacrifices whilst made also byForces the Community Armed and are extremelysignatories proud of the Armed Forces Covenant. As Inzpire’s internal-recruiter company in December after the RAF experience, but that as our policies actively support thethe recruitment Armed of Forces community say that we truly recogniseand that highly motivated workforce iscontinuing pivotal success, to therefore our we actively recruit our policies actively support the recruitment of our policies actively support the I can categorically the Armed Forces community. diverse, talented say that we truly recognise that a and highly motivated workforce is pivotal to our continuing success, therefore we actively recruit ruly at phoon such as such as Ty traditional concepts traditional concepts – nly possible with great rusted partner of the –iso ne capable of delivering to the at –o SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk

et up in 2005 byveterans, three Inzpire RAF is now anwinning award- supplier of defence

trusted defence company in the world, putting make the world-leading GECO family of mission

oy

UK MOD. Zara McArdle tellsthe us company. about managed services, cutting-edge mission systems, and operations and we are experts insynthetic simulation environments. and Boasting over 2500 years of military experience between our employeesover and 300,000 flying hours, we recognise that systems for airborne customers, we trainArmy the to British fly Apache helicopters, wepilots instruct in RAF cockpit skills, we support UK We great company highest expectations of the UK andand global civilian military sectors people. Our vision is to becomeand the most respected S COVENANT THE ARMED FORCES SUPPORTING Copyright Garryridsdale.com Env SUPPORTING SPOUSES/PARTNERS 36 SUPPORTING THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT –INZPIRE elyet oapyfradscesul gain successfully and for apply to deployment, of upheaval the juggle to We assist. to appropriate) it’s (where home-working have and forward straight ag from far is life that service recognising reservists, and serving veterans of personnel, members family support Our policies partners. HR and spouses military includes requirements, which advertised our Forces meet Armed who the community of members all for scheme We that! on based application an discount and recognise can employers who local recruiters even and and jobs between out time include can bias viewing Such negatively family us. what around and have area we the support in live to career intend partner’s we my about asked be to spouses. so military particularly for searching, job a when have impact can negative bias that unconscious forces much armed how the appreciated leaving on only was It mlyetatrec eoain h remarkable the relocation, each after employment nru oia akg,flxbewrigand working flexible package, holiday enerous raiainrqie obcm ohmmand mum both become to required organisation nesadteecpinlsil required skills exceptional the understand aejs introduced just have a vrih,teaiiyt ucl aefriends make quickly to ability the overnight, dad ceefralmembers all for scheme We n h eea a-oattitude can-do general the challenges and and environments new to adapt and ag omnt h meet who community fteArmed the of aate interview uaranteed aejs introduced just have u advertised our requirements as h re Forces Armed the Iw ceso fsottr jobs, term short of uccession as shrie ta interview an at horrified as ag otntc oeor move notice hort possess. community aate interview uaranteed Fo am rces ” ltr address ilitary ,h wlong ow It ruly idotmr nIzie inzpire.com Inzpire: on more out Find Linked via spare-time, In my in guidance, and support aq Ie gg lsl ihtefmle eeain n as and federations families the with closely ngage www.linkedin.com/in/zaramcardle ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ search: job your affecting negatively bias unconscious Ti aie recruiter ualified st tr to ps hc pn pyu pin hnjob when searching options your up full-time opens work which can you to, and want flexible you is employer an If working. Yo Fu as such websites or development, personal and learning professional station for the centres of use make able, If management and communication as organisation, such skills transferable your on focus CV life, service to due roles undertaken have you If ‘googled’ are you case in private/ professional is media social your Ensure best work initials or name full Ke interests Yo history employment your Yo CV your on Yo ueLanta r free are that Learn ture um udon udon udon pyu mi drs professional, address email your ep gtntne attm rhome- or part-time need not ight thv opthbisand hobbies put to have ot include to have ot address an include to have ot ya daodany avoid nd Iamh UMR2019 SUMMER pyt rvd reCV free provide to appy oyih Garryridsdale.com Copyright raf-ff.org.uk av reyof ariety al cto of ocation . Env oy

SUPPORTING SPOUSES/PARTNERS SUPPORTING THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT –INZPIRE 37 38

READY. AIM. FUNDRAISE!

Bakers of Britain, join ourfundraising forces this summer andshowyoursupport forour Heroes. Whetherhosting abakesale at home with friends, at work with colleagues, or at school with classmates,every cake youbuy or bake makesareal difference to ourwounded,injured andsickVeteransand theirfamilies. Pick adateand signupfor your free fundraising pack at h4hweb.com/2019bake6 or call 0300 3039888.

Helpfor Heroes is acharity registered in England andWales (1120920)and Scotland (SC044984).

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk RAF 39 ELLBEING Widows’ &W HEALTH & WELLBEING HEALTH RAF WIDOWS’ ASSOCIATION WIDOWS’ ASSOCIATION Association Registered Charity No: 1030945

By | Kerry McNally,Chair

n1992 agroup of young RAF Widows met to Making new friends, having some ‘me time’, having fun tryand address the problems that many of and having asupportive network in times of need all help Ithem faced, from that initial meeting the RAF in reducing that sense of isolation that can sometimes be overwhelming in times of bereavement. Widows’ Association was founded. Friendships flourish and we hear about our members going The RAF Widows’ Association (RAFWA) is anational charity on holiday together and having days out. for women and men who have lost their spouse or partner whilst serving in the RAF at the time of their death or who Nationally,wework closely with our sister single service died within two years of leaving the RAF. Widows Associations to improve the situation of the bereaved family. The association’s aim is to offer comfort, support, friendship and aspecial understanding of the problems new widows We are very much supported by the RAF Benevolent Fund and widowers are facing. We believe it is useful and and we work closely with other Service-related charities reassuring to meet and talk with others who are in asimilar who provide help and information. position. The Association is run by anetwork of volunteers who The Association is divided into regions which are overseen themselves are RAF Widows, so they do really understand by aPoint of Contact. This person organises social events what the members are going through. locally as required by the members. We currently have just If you think you are eligible to join our Association please over 200 members who are spread across the country, contact me via [email protected] website is including some who live overseas, and are mainly to be found rafbf.org/raf-widows clustered around large RAF stations. Tw ice ayear we host national weekend meetings. Members have the opportunity to join us for asa subsidisedubsidised weekend, in aha hotel,otel, around the countrycountry..Int In thehe last year we have visited Lichfield,Lichfi eld, where we incorporated a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, Leeds and Bath. We vary the location so that it allows the opportunity for as many of our members as possible to be able to attend. Many people are often unsure about joining the Association as they do not know what to expect, Iremember feeling alot of trepidation prior to my first meeting with members of the Association but my fears were ill found as Iwas met with kindness and friendship and yes there were afew tears but it was lovely to be able to talk to someone who was that little bit further on in their bereavement and to realise that Iwould eventually ‘get through’ my grief and bereavement.

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 40

PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION

Be recognised for your professionalism and expertise

WITH YOU NOW The Institution of Engineering and Technology AND FOR THE REST OF (IET) recognises that the Armed Forces train their YOUR CAREER personnel to achieve high standards at all times. If you’re interested in becoming amember of Professional registration the IET and to start the process to becoming Professional registration provides formal recognition of your professionally registered, you can contact us military skills and experience and shows that you have in one of three ways: demonstrated continual professional competence to ahigh, internationally recognised standard throughout your career. Text IETMOD and your full name to The IET is licenced by the Engineering Council to award: 62277** and we’ll call you back Chartered Engineer (CEng) Incorporated Engineer (IEng) Call +44(0)1438 767648 Engineering Technician (EngTech) Email [email protected] ICT Technician (ICTTech) **Free text line, no charges apply. Special Registration Agreements (SRAs) SRAs benchmark certain career pathways* against the requirements for professional registration, creating a www.theiet.org/armed-forces streamlined application process. *Visit www.theiet.org/armed-forces to see if you meet the SRA criteria.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology is registered as aCharity in England &Wales (no 211014) and Scotland(no SC038698),Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, SG1 2AY, United Kingdom.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 41

Dare to ELLBEING RE TO STOP DA &W STOP HEALTH

By | Padre Chris Hodder

would your ideal holiday be? balance and think about adjustments or whether it is time for a What Touring countryroads on abicycle? change in direction. Visiting hallowed historic houses or special and Whilst the plethora of ideas about how we should spend our time scenic sites? Navigating the night life in aplace that and money doing holidays is ever growing, the idea of stepping back never sleeps? Swimming in the sea? Or sleepily from routine is not new.Different faith traditions have had subtly different ideas about what a‘Retreat’ (from the Latin, ‘to withdraw, sizzling on the sand? to drawback’) is, but at its heart all of them recognise the value of Ihate sand, personally.Idon’t like it in my toes, and it gets pulling back. Sometimes we need to slow down and be attentive to everywhere, but Ihave kids, so have to face it each year with the self,the world around, others, and make mental and spiritual resignation, hoping that by November Iwill have hoovered space. It’s hard to hear the still small voice in aworld that only the worst of it out of the car seats and it will no longer be shouts. visible unless Ihave to rummage under the boot floor for the Ican remember,some years ago when Iwas aUniversity compressor or something. Chaplain, awise monk from acommunity in France called Taizé, How will you spend your summer? who visited the East Midlands. My colleague and Iwere taking a group of students there one summer and the monk had come Ihope that, whatever you do, you do get acouple of weeks over to the UK to encourage students to take part. He was off to recharge. Although the planning and packing can be talking to one particular student, ahigh achiever who always hard work, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that holidays took on far too many challenges and was often stressed and are good for building our emotional and mental wellbeing. rushing about. “I can’t afford to spend my summer sitting quietly That might simply be by topping up our Vitamin Dlevels, or in amonastery,” she opined. “I have far too much to get done”. by allowing time and space to build different memories in the relationships that are close to us. Spending time with friends “Dare to stop,” he replied. He had nailed her need in three and family can be just what we need to unwind after astressful words. And of course, she came, and grew enormously as a period at work. person as aresult. Holidays make us to stop and step away from our busy work/ Maybe this summer,for alittle while –dare to stop. domestic life routines and carve out adifferent canvas to inhabit for aweek or two. Taking abreak makes us more productive when we do return, but also help us to reflect on our work/life

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 42 PA HEALTH

AOO PILOTS RAMOTOR PARAMOTOR PILOTS

&W FLYover 40 RAF ELLBEING STATIONS for CHARITY

record-breaking RAF officer and his friend flewmore than 260 miles on paramotors to raise money for the Royal Air AForces Association. Flight Lieutenant Giles Fowler,the UK’s highest flying paramotor pilot, and Paul Mockford, son of the Chairman of the Aylesbury and Halton Branch of the RAF Association, took to the skies of Lincolnshire. Their 263 mile challenge, #RAFA40, saw them fly over 40 current and former RAF stations. Raising more than £3,000 for the RAF Association. The pair’s two day trip was split over six legs, starting from the former Bomber Command airfield at RAF Goxhill, near Hull, and fi finishing nishing at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. The route took them over Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Giles, 40, from Lowestoft, said, “Paul and IIm metet briefl yatafly at a fl yingying festival, and we quickly realised we both had aac connectiononnection with both paramotoring and the RAF Association, which his father Derf has been closely involved with for years. “I wanted to attempt achallenge and raise money for something that’s close to my heart, and the RAF Association is agreat charity which does so much to help active and former RAF personnel and their families.” Paramotoring is similar to paragliding, but pilots wear asmall engine and appropellerropeller on their back, and are able to take off from flafl attfi fi eldselds instead of having to launch from hills and summits. Giles is a serving offi cer in the RAF with 25 years’ fl ying experience, and holds the record for the highest UK paramotor fl ight, at 21,746ft. He also fl ew the longest non-stop fl ight in the UK, travelling 300 miles coast to coast, from former RAF Brawdy in Pembrokeshire to Beccles Airfi eld in Suffolk in 2017. Team image: Giles and Paul were assisted by friends and fellow paramotorist (Centre, l-r) Paramotorists Paul Mockford and Flight Lieutenant Giles enthusiasts Katie Pagett and Andy Greaves, who provided ground Fowler with their air crew Andy Greves and Katie Pagett. support by carrying fuel, spare parts and supplies for the pilots.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk Butlins is just one of the places to choose a break. 43 ELLBEING &W HEALTH

©RAF Benevolent Fund. ‘EVERYONE NEEDS ABREAK’ – welfare breaks scheme extended for serving personnel

he RAF Benevolent Fund has expanded Locations include Hammer Bank its welfare breaks scheme for serving Lodge, Windermere; Reighton Sands Tpersonnel to include locations across Holiday Park, Filey; Rose Cottage, Loch the whole of the UK. Ness; Fox Glove Cottage, Loch Lomond; Coast House, Littlehampton; Awel YMor,Llandudno; and Butlins Resort, Having supported the RAF Family for the past 100 years, Bognor Regis. the Fund knows how stressful Service life can be. Deployment, separation and continuous moves can all Properties are available throughout the English and add to pressures at work and home. To help, the RAF Scottish school holidays during summer 2019. Best effort Benevolent Fund are offering subsidised breaks across will be made to ensure that applicants are offered their the UK to serving personnel and their families. All first choice dates, but priority will be given to families properties are available to RAF families at the affordable with welfare needs. rate of between £35 and £64 anight. One RAF Family,who enjoyed abreak earlier this year, Leon Hart, Head of Respite and Care at the RAF said: “Wereally were at alow point before this holiday. Benevolent Fund, said: “Everyone deserves abreak, Family,our relationship, stress, you name it, we were particularly serving families who live with the pressures of going through it. We were at our wits’ end before we service life from day to day. went away.Itwas our last chance in our marriage and keeping our family together. “This scheme is just one way the Fund supports the serving community,providing things like our Airplay “Wearrived at this amazing house with abig garden and youth support scheme, funding relationship counselling everything we needed, overlooking the sea. Straightaway and free access to the mindfulness app Headspace.” it was like we had left everything behind, the worries, the stress. From day one we started to become afamily The breaks will run on selected dates during the 2019 again, and husband and wife.” summer holiday period and will offer an opportunity to rent acaravan or cottage in many popular UK locations. To book, go online to rafbf.org

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 44

H IPEPOND RIPPLE THE HEALTH The &W

ELLBEING Ripple Pond

The Ripple Pond is aself-help peer support network for the adult family members of physically and emotionally injured service personnel and veterans.

We are not a crisis organisation. The emphasis is on meeting and speaking to people in a similar situation, to give and receive support from those who are walking a similar journey to yourself. The Ripple Pond was established in 2011 by Julia Molony six and Sue Hawkins, both of them mothers to physically in any ©RipplePond. injured soldiers. They each individually reached out in a time one group. when their lives were changing forever and found little in This ensures everyone the way of support for the parents of the injured. Realising if has the opportunity to share and be heard. We try to run they were in this position others would be to, they formed them monthly depending on the groups needs and are The Ripple Pond. facilitated by a Group Administrator (who is a member of One of our members whose husband is serving in the The Ripple Pond). We also have a ‘buddy’ system whereby RAF recently sent us their story: we put members in touch with one another, so regardless of whether there is a meeting in their area, they can still “I stumbled upon The Ripple Pond at a time when I access that face-to-face support. And thirdly, we have a desperately needed help and support living with my husband private Facebook page. This is a judgement free area where with PTSD. His illness had got so bad that I was at the end members can share their stories, celebrate a good day or of my tether, trying to juggle being a good Mum and keeping commiserate after a bad day, regardless of time. There will myself healthy so that I could be the supportive wife too. always be someone around to comment and support. It’s pretty much impossible to do all of this unless you are Wonderwoman. The Ripple Pond’s online Facebook group The Ripple Pond has fi ve members of staff based in the Hub in has been an amazing method of support. I felt relieved that Aldershot with our members being spread all over the UK. I was no longer suffering on my own and could vent in the Forces families often do not recognise the underlying stress group and receive comments of support and encouragement. they cope with. Helping a loved one with an injury is unique It didn’t really matter if someone couldn’t help – it was and personal. The Ripple Pond sets out to support the silent the fact that there were people feeling just like me. I am a party of trauma in the military, the family members who veteran myself so was pretty clued up but that is not always live alongside it who are trying to make sense of it. If you the case for all. The Ripple Pond is fantastic and I can’t are caring for a loved one with a military attributed injury – recommend them enough for people in my position. I am remember to take care of yourself too. To fi nd out more go grateful daily that I made that phone call” to t heripplepond.org We have three avenues of support, the main being our Facebook and Twitter @theripplepond group meetings. These are kept small with a maximum of

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 45

Legal Advice & Guidance You Can Trust

·CourtsMartial ·Service Complaints/ Employment ·FamilyLaw ·Court of Protection ·Wills, Powers of Attorney&Probate ·Immigration ·Buying &Selling Property ·Personal Injury (Forces Help to Buy)

Forces Law is anetwork of member firms across the UK specialising in advising our armed forces community; initial advice and signposting is free of charge and further costs upon instruction will be discussed and explained during this first contact with your chosen lawyer. Enquire today at:

[email protected] |www.forceslaw.com

Keeping you connected

We work to keep youintouch with your lovedones,evenwhen youcan’t be together. With your support, we can continue to provide vital free Wi-Fifor thousands of serving RAFpersonnel. Become amember forjust £20.50 peryear.

Patron: HerMajestyThe Queen Registered Charity226686 (England &Wales). SC037673 (Scotland). Call 0800 018 2361 or visit rafa.org.uk/join

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy ide rnado GR4 aw int which To he Club ssistance covers Staff ap ,a .T Re nd other Service lfare breaks to nd, together with ormer Fu rk Lane. The Club We af Fu Pa acey Pilkington SO1 Tr rk, under our reciprocal Yo spite and harity and we have rrant Officer Jon Crossley elaxed feel and dress code. Our Re ac CLUB Wa ar he Army Central ,t as are extremely popular covery staffs such as the mart and comfortable air conditioned Te Re nd. The RAF Central as aried children’s and vegetarian menus, all Fu rters who provide our security av Po ustees drawn from the three Services. The serving ES Tr ustees are Wing Commander ery comfortable and eam of ur Afternoon Tr at av .O covery Delivery RAF and range of RAF Re has with finding taxi’s, planning sightseeing trips,luggage. and Membership helping entitles with you to stayClubs at worldwide, number including of New other agreements. The Club’s infrastructure is very well maintained. The Victory Services Club is (CASWO). In addition, we also haveSteve Air Chisnall, Vice-Marshal and (Retired) Mrs Mandy Hickson, pilot. Uniquely we offer free individuals and their families who areeither recommended the to Services us by The Club has 202 bedrooms, withfrom prices £52.50 currently to ranging £123; of thesethere 75% is have free air wi-fi conditioning coverage and throughoutbedrooms the nine Club. of Of them our are 202 accessiblebeen bedrooms recently which refurbished, have with all tremendous supportRAF from Benevolent the the RN and RM Charity dining facilities are extremely modern withfree-wi-fi. air Our conditioning food and offer includes Clubtogether classics with to fine dining, at very reasonable prices. Our Victorycan Ale be is enjoyed £3 in bar charities, including Help for Heroes hasupgrades generously to supported our bedrooms Our members50% can discount benefit on from car a parking chargeshas in IC ORY eparate ob here? as yal Air Force aj Ro RV ad ever heard of the Ih VICT SE ad been in the Ih lue Service and Courtesy irrespective rk Lane. It is very easy to get to as it Va Pa SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk ddington and Marylebone stations, and Marble elatively modest annual membership charge for Pa ar oy

ember through your military service, the Victory Services am sorry to say that for twenty seven years before Victory Services Club. Of course, everyone has heard

is close to While details about the Victory Serviceson Club vsc.co.uk, can you be should found first knowLondon, that adjacent the to Club Marble is Arch, in whichOxford Central is Street the and junction of Arch is on the Central Line.membership The to Club all uniquely ranks offers who free areArmed Serving Forces, members and of those the of UK NATOincluding and regulars the and Commonwealth reservists. Membership foror the partner spouse of serving armed forcesClub members has is also free. The Of all the military clubs inThe London Club it is is open unique to and allmission very ranks is special. of to the deliver Armed Forcesof and whether our you are, or were,Aircraftman an and Air every Chief rank Marshal in or between.London an If for you either are work ever or visiting pleasuream and you are eligible toClub be is the place to visit and stay. former members of the Armed Forces and offers of the RAF Club andthe the Victory Union Services Jack Club Club, and butdid what what it did was tempt it me offer to andservice leave why to the apply RAF for after and thirty succeed years in of getting family membership scheme for those whothemselves, have but not who served are parents orserved children or of are those serving who in have thejoin Armed the Forces. Club It online is and very to easy book to bedrooms via the website.

Env I HEALTH &WELLBEING 46 VICTORYSERVICES CLUB All pics©VSC. 3 free 139 provided has Club Services 2018, Victory April the Since well. as free for provided ie etCBE Beet Nigel Secretary Club serving. are you if join is to it free that remembering it, try and you come that recommended is It place. special is Club Services Victory The guests. overnight staff outstanding menus, impressive with a venue, for wedding location exceptional an is 180. Club host The can we which at dinners, large to gatherings informal small from ranging events, reunion at colleagues and friends also is Club year increases number this to children. Tickets age school three and adults two for meals all include and nights Charity Marines SSAF including charities tHigh at oshl please. household ulses rnesadayn once ihtecmeiin.Ol n nr per entry one Only competitions. the with connected anyone and printers publishers, pnt l edr fEvyecp mlye fteRFF n hi aiis its families, their and FF RAF the of employees except Envoy of readers all to Open h eino 50 nrnsms eoe 18. over be must Entrants £500. of region the okterbekbfr h 1tMrh22.Tevleo hsbekwudb in be would break this of value The 2020. March 31st the before break their book edn)by heading) ordtist nure@a-fogu ptigVCBekEtyit h subject the into Entry Break VSC (putting [email protected] to details your ra o n aiy(pto (up family one for break h itr evcsCu sknl feigoerae owin to reader one offering kindly is Club Services Victory The Wy EDRPIEDRAW PRIZE READER Re at ob,adlaigService leading and combe, pt and spite ap pLno trcinare attraction London op ,A retvnefrmeeting for venue erfect .T ,a rCmooe(Retired) Commodore ir eebek r o two for are breaks hese d22bdom for bedrooms 202 nd We Fr Aa fr breaks; lfare dy1t uyadw ilcnattelcywne h ilne to need will who winner lucky the contact will we and July 19th iday dthe nd -o Yo au n-year af rdtiswl o epse nt n hr at organisations. party third any to on passed be not will details ur iu and nique ml of amily Ro .T yal he 2a ut and dults 2s ho g hlrn.Sml email Simply children). age chool af e weekend ree UMR2019 SUMMER raf-ff.org.uk Env oy

HEALTH &WELLBEING VICTORYSERVICES CLUB 47 48

A ETA UDNWCOAPPOINTMENT CEO NEW FUND CENTRAL RAF INTEREST OF RAF CENTRAL FUND NEW CEO APPOINTMENT

The RAF Central Fund is delighted to announce the appointment of Ross Perriam as their Chief Executive Officer as of June 2019.

Ross brings substantial knowledge and experience to this important role. Over the last 15 years, Ross has held Director,COO,CEO and Tr ustee positions in the UK and European fitness and sports sectors, recently transitioning into the not-for-profit and charitable sectors. In his current role as CEO of EMO UK, Ross has worked closely with Sport England and other sporting bodies to promote a more active nation on behalf of the UK government. The successful acquisition of the popular ClassFinder Ltd is included in his impressive achievements at EMO UK.

Prior to his role at EMO UK, Ross facilitated the formation of FitGroupUK, acollaboration of key opinion leaders from across the sector to lead the industry in engaging with the nation’s inactive population ofl5 million people.

With his distinctive outlook and experience, Ross’s approach has been to bring diverse groups together to transition through periods of significant change in the sector, effectively improving communication and engagement across organisations. In addition, Ross has an impressive track record of developing new revenue streams, securing increases to current funding and raising brand profiles.

Ross said, “I couldn’t be more honoured to have been chosen to lead the RAF Central Fund. Ibelieve in the benefits of physical activity and will do my best to support the Board of Tr ustees and team in fulfilling their passion to make adifference for RAF serving personnel.”

Speaking on behalf of the Central Fund Board, the Chair of Tr ustees Dr.Eamonn Molloy said, “Weare fortunate to have found someone of Ross Perriam’s calibre and experience to lead the RAF Central Fund. Ross brings deep expertise in motivating others through physical activity,which is critical as we continue to refine the Central Fund strategy in this period of exciting changes in the sector.Webelieve his combination of sector experience, commercial acumen and commitment to the physical well-being of serving RAF personnel positions him to be an excellent fit for the role of CEO at the Fund.”

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk NE FOR CHILDREN IN SCHOOLS S col nsmlrpstos When positions. other similar support in turn, schools support in to and, could children we service all our doing in facing was school that meant now It (NEAC). Committee Advisory Executive National years the over ways and many in schools supported has Pupil Service Pr the obtaining Being in schools. instrumental supporting initially in did group the that at was It when life. point of this way rank military the general acronyms, and the structure with terms to come quickly having Not say they the rest, for the application and my role went permanent in So were. resilient children and the spirited how especially and population could. they that Ij experiences best very the this children of heart the at community school, the that and children school the was unique community and and special how I know year to that got During school. the of Headteacher Authority Local the by get to Community Benson say honestly Ih col providin schools Familie ove took arme the in serve s drdtesho,tecagn aueo its of nature changing the school, the adored ust mu SP o col,SISa norganisation an as SCISS schools, for (SPP) emium v eni ecigfr2 er and, years 23 for teaching in been ave Iw noteissu the into wa ervi as sdlgtdi 02t eakdt onthe join to asked be to 2012 in delighted as sF btniehatahrand headteacher ubstantive sf rast ST WC eChildre ce ederatio ,h am ,IL orme dt nueta hygv the gave they that ensure to ad ltr akrudmyself background ilitary eChair he OV Ic gf dasaw df m cosSISadtework the and SCISS across ame Ic Ei nab SE rcide hs parents whose children or

srel es AT Pr udrieteise htour that issues the raise ould -w ninS re.SehFa Steph orces. !I etme 00RAF 2010 September In t! ,tot mr colwsstruggling was School imary t lot10 service 100% almost ith it n shares and tn oEnglis to ating or tate bu e background. her about k nterl of role the on ake iggrou king

HA

RV School E Is atda RAF at tarted wit Iw ,ish ptol dyrecently wdry ,Ih s( ht sasked, as Ic IR hs SCI istory! dto ad eRAF he ook an

IC tate SS)

E handbook publications/service-children-in-state-schools- Handbook: SCISS the Access on Follow ahead! journey exciting an Wa year in Re children two have only you etse gi nya six year in again re-tested as 2020 September form the of validity the Baseline also and other area the one to from moving Special when with Needs children Educational for transition as children such service face supporting schools that issues on We various in schools ways. to support and will advice and provide children service with schools supporting be will country the around responsibility as lightly made not was Chair the Becoming SCISS of Chair Becoming aei colutlte l unu nSeptember! in up turn all will they we until children school many in how as have know planning actually on not impact do an we has also and and staffing resources for for budget, the which for 54% challenges is presents year each rate mobility average Our school. our to welcome to more some and go to set children of number a with 196 at settled now it’s 149; were numbers the Benson eto tyu school! your at ception c hssaefrSISftr projects future SCISS for space this tch eymc niiaesekn ihGovernment with speaking anticipate much very Te Tw tn hc sdet eoestatutory become to due is which sting .O te @SCISSUK itter Ik rta frpeettvsfrom representatives of team ur o hti oe ihgreat with comes it that now am -q as SUMMER ad uite aueo performance of easure gov.uk/government/ rn oc in voice trong cso htI that ecision raf-ff.org.uk ac 6w alneif hallenge 2019 owr in were ho Re ception –weh Env ave o y

OF INTEREST NEW CHAIR FOR SERVICE CHILDREN IN STATESCHOOLS 49 50 GORDON’SSCHOOL BOARDINGINSURREY

Ranked in the top1%ofall schools in England and Walesoverthe past3years at ALevel.

Years7,9and 12 boarding places available from £5,378 perterm.

2019 Open Days Pleasesee websitewww.gordons.school to book aplace.

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 51

The perfect balanceofsingle-sexand co-education Charity Number 525616 Payonly10% of the fees, around £950 per term* *This applies to ServiceFamilies who areeligiblefor the Continuity of Education Allowance, entering the School 2019/20. Additionalmeans-tested support, subjecttoavailability,may be offeredtofamilies who lose the CEA. Find out more www.habsmonmouth.org/forces

Co-educational,day &boarding schoolfor 3-18years in South East England

Boarding from 7to18years Warm and supportivefamily ethos Strong academicresults at 11+,GCSEand ALevel Modernen-suiteboarding accommodation Fast train only 75 minutes from London ChristianFoundation

HM Forces personnelinreceipt of CEApay only 10% of theboardingfee

T: 01843 572931 E: [email protected] College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE www.slcuk.com

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 52 ADCOTE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL Learning to thrive in the 21stCentury HARPENDEN Unique CLEAR learning programme Anon-denominationalChristian dayand boardingschool n Small•Warm •Nurturing o

20%DISCOUNT TO ARMED FORCES

11-18coeducational boarding at oneofthe Adcote School for Girls, Little Ness, UK's topperforming non-selective schools for £4270 perterm Shrewsbury,Shropshire, SY4 2JY

Only30minutes from St PancrasInternational Tel: 01939 260 202 Less than an hour by road from Heathrow,Stanstedand Luton Email: [email protected] Herts AL54TD |[email protected] |01582 716284 Web: www.adcoteschool.org.uk www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk @Adcoteschool @AdcoteSchool OPEN DAY

ACO-EDUCATIONAL SATURDAY5TH OCTOBER 2019 BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR 10.00AM TO 2.00PM 2TO18YEAR OLDS

Full and weekly boarding from 7years old Rossall offers amilitarydiscount

For more information, to register for our next Open Day,please visit our website

Rossall School, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 8JW Email [email protected] Telephone 01253 774201

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 53 WE ARE ST MARGARET’S

WHO WE ARE Independent Dayand Boarding School forgirls aged 4-18 years Established in 1749

WHATWEDO Junior School, Senior School &Sixth Form

WHERE WE ARE FORCES LocatedinBushey, Hertfordshire, DISCOUNT within easyaccess to central London AVAILABLE

www.stmargaretsbushey.co.uk

@StMargsBushey| @StMargsBushey| @StMargaretsBushey

Theschool is so welcoming and understanding of someone from a militarybackground,Iquickly felt partof the community. Student

Aco-educational, non-selectiveindependent school set in a56acre campus in Somerset. NurserytoSixth Form. CHALLENGE

NURTURE

INSPIRE

Forcesfamilies payfrom£433 per term www.tauntonschool.co.uk (Years 3-4) up to £825 per term forfull boarding in the senior school,plus CEA. Followus@TauntonSchool POTL and R&R Flexibility.

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 54

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk 55

Igniting passion for life and learning “A supportive community of pupils and teachers...in an area of outstandingnatural beauty.”

Good Schools Guide

Open Days 15th June June&5&5thth October October 2019 2019

We are able to offer standard discounts to Boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 11-18 families from HM Forces or UK Diplomatic Kingham, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX76TH Services. This leaves parents to pay 10% T: +44 (0) 1608 658999 or E: [email protected] of published fees after taking into account to request aprospectus and arrange avisit. full CEA entitlement. www.kinghamhill.org.uk

SUMMER 2019 raf-ff.org.uk Envoy 56 generous

forces bursaries R I EG availble Founded 1553

Please come for Outstanding Education for pupils ataste of Packwood... Good Schools Guide says: aged 7-18 “ The situation of the school is an asset –itis 1450 boys and girls GY [HXXJ ZIYTV[d PYHd[YJ over 500 boarders from age 7 location, easy to reach from Packwood all corners of the country.” Haugh 01527 579679 [email protected] Individual visits www. packwood-haugh.co.uk welcome, please bromsgrove-school.co.uk contact Admissions Packwood Haugh School Ruyton XI Towns Shrewsbury SY41HX Telephone 01939 260217 Co-educational, c_U`N WR`MS`O_`]P WUSURP^`S N`b\LN Day &Boarding 0- (+).1&#,..$ BELIEVE. STRIVE. ACHIEVE. "(*'/% *(&/!

State Boarding at De Aston -the affordable alternative to independent education Homely atmospherewithin asafe,securelocal environment •Outstanding pastoral care, guidance and support Outstanding academic support and links between House and School and specialist support for EAL students Fast, easy transport links locally and nationally 2019-20 fees £11400 per annum.

Avibrant school with traditional values and modernfacilities, including full-time and weekly boarding. For moreinformation about our Boarding House, please contact Andrew Quinlan (Head of Boarding). Tel: 01673 840 822 •01673 843 415 sbf Email: [email protected] •Web: www.de-aston.lincs.sch.uk State Boarding Forum State Boarding Forum If you would like to advertise in the next edition of Envoy pleasecontact Chris Cappie on 01463 732223 or email [email protected]

SUMMER 2019 Envoy raf-ff.org.uk IS YOUR QUOTEA...

th a Be in wi to wina chance £100 ft card gi ply itions ap nd cond Termsa

CarInsurance forRAF personneland theirfamilies

GetaCar Insurancequote before 30 June 2019 andyou couldbeawinner! Call 0345 6581140 Visit forcesmutual.org/car

CarInsuranceisprovidedbyRoyal &Sun AllianceInsuranceplc. Seewww.forcesmutual.org/carquote forprize draw termsand conditions.

PMGI Limited, tradingasForcesMutual,isauthorisedand regulatedbythe FinancialConductAuthority.RegisteredinEngland &WalesNo. 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire,WS136QS.For your security,all telephonecalls arerecordedand maybemonitored.

PMG12786 0519 POSITIVITY|PRIDE|NURTURE |INTEGRITY|EXCELLENCE

QueenVictoriaSchool Dunblane,Scotland

Aimingtoprovide aunique,thrivingboardingand educationalcommunity in whichall pupils andstaffworktosupport andrespect oneanother in realisingtheir full potential

In45acres of countryside,our co-educational boardingschoolisfor thechildren of UK ArmedForces personnel whoare Scottish,orwho have served in Scotland or who have been members of aScottishregiment. The main entrypoint is Primary 7, which is the broad equivalent of Year 6inEngland. Places are fully funded by the MOD, with aparental charge for some aspects of boarding life. ,77"$150$893 (84 5.!$33$89 08 /'* 1"83) 89 0&) +# :59-54%6 )51& %)542

Families are welcome to find out more by contacting Admissions on +44 (0) 131 310 2927 to arrange avisit.

www.qvs.school

TRUST|INDEPENDENCE |RESPONSIBILITY|RESPECT |EQUALITY

Creative MediaDesignADR007786