E m e r g i n g I s s u e s Emerging Issues INTRODUCTION OF A
BENEFITS CALCULATOR Source: SP Pol Pay & Allowances
A
n Armed Forces’ Benefits Calculator, the ABC, has been developed to better
communicate to Service personnel the value of their ‘total benefits’ package. Personnel can obtain an indicative value for their total remuneration package, incorporating basic pay, specialist pay, individual allowances, pension, and other benefits as well as information on other MOD-provided benefits, such as medical/dental care and physical education opportunities.
The calculator can be found at: www.
MODABC.co.uk It can also be accessed through ‘RAF Portal’ website; ‘RAFCOM’; ‘AirSpace’, Station Websites and RAF recruiting websites.
Review of the UK’s Reserve Forces
Source: Directorate of Reserve Forces and Cadets
T O 4
he Secretary of State for Defence has announced a Strategic Review of the UK's Reserve Forces to ensure they
meet the Defence needs as an integral part of Defence capability.
The review will take into account the Reserves’ recent considerable operational experience, seeking opinions from across the Defence community and beyond. If you have a view, the review team would very much like to hear from you. The email address is: alan.
lawson135@mod.uk . There are more details on the RAF Families Federation website at:
www.raf-ff.org.uk
Transfer of SFA in Northern Ireland
n 1st April 2008 the management of Service Family Accommodation (SFA) in
Northern Ireland transferred to Defence Estates Operations Housing North Region (DE). The Housing
Summer 2008
Information Centre (HIC) at Rosyth is now the principal focal point for occupants. There will continue to be a local presence of Housing Managers and Housing Officers at Aldergrove. For more information go to: www.
defence-estates.mod.uk. Contact details for the HIC at Rosyth are: Tel: 0800 169 6322 Email:
scotlandhic@hd.de.mod.uk
RAF REGIMENT GUNNERS TO RECEIVE A FINANCIAL
RETENTION INCENTIVE Source: SO1 FP Plans/SO2 RAF Regt Manpower
M
anning shortages amongst RAF Regiment Gunners have
prompted the Armed Forces Pay Review Body to authorise a financial retention incentive (FRI) commencing 1 Apr 08 until 31 Mar 10 for SAC Gunners who have completed 4 years reckonable service. More details are available at:
www.raf-ff.org.uk
THE GOVERNMENT PLEDGES ENHANCED COMMITMENT BONUS TO SERVICE PERSONNEL (OR'S ONLY) FROM 2009
T S
he Government has announced a significant increase in the Commitment Bonus available
to Service Personnel. The maximum available bonus will rise from £5,500 to £15,000. The scheme will be open, from 2009, to all Other Ranks passing the four year service point. There are more details on the Federation website at:
www.raf-ff.org.uk
‘A Pound for Your Thoughts’
SAFA are running a fundraising scheme to help the families of injured Service personnel
recovering at Selly Oak Hospital. All proceeds from the ‘Pound Packs’ will be used to provide a ‘Home from Home’ near the hospital in Birmingham which will allow patients to visit their loved ones and relax in a family environment.
The Pound Pack invites people to donate £1 by placing a coin into a medal printed onto a specially designed card. The reverse of the card asks for a message of support that will be seen by injured troops and their families. An electronic version is also available at
www.ssafa.org.uk. SSAFA are also looking for help distributing the packs to their local community.
Government Policy to Improve Access to NHS Dentists
T
he Department of Health has recognised that Armed Forces families have difficulty in accessing NHS dental
services. For further information go to:
http://www.dh.gov.uk/ en/Publicationsandstatistics/ Publications/PublicationsPolicy AndGuidance/DH_082104
RAFA Balloon Race O
n Wednesday 16th July the RAF Association (RAFA)
launches its first national Wings Appeal Balloon Race. Thousands of balloons, sponsored by individuals, will be released in the race. All money raised will help provide care and support for the RAF family, young and old. Prizes include a trip in a Virgin hot air balloon. For more information go to:
www.rafa.org.uk/fundraising- balloonrace.asp
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