The last six months have seen a rise in resources available online for those considering an overseas posting or who are already overseas. Previously this Command information has often only been accessed by the serving person, so the move towards systems accessible for spouses and family members is positive.
British Forces Cyprus has launched a new portal to support families throughout their overseas journey. While still in its early stages of development, the portal, available at britishforcescyprus.info, aims to provide comprehensive information on pre-arrival preparations, living on base, life in Cyprus and departure procedures. It covers essential topics like visas, pets, schools and healthcare, making it a valuable resource for families.
People Operations Specialist Wing Cdr Jackie Wren said it would continue to develop, replacing individual unit SharePoint sites and old-fashioned paper arrival packs.
“The website will significantly improve the information available to personnel and their families, accessible in a way that modern communication demands, enabling the whole family to understand what they need to know to consider an assignment in Cyprus or what they need to do once assigned here.”
The Global Support Organisation, which supports those assigned to Europe and Turkey, previously used EJSU.net, and is currently dividing its resources between the gov.uk GSO pages and Defence Connect. The gov.uk pages offer pre-arrival information and in-country background. Defence Connect, which requires the serving person’s login, provides current in-country updates from welfare teams and Community Liaison Officers.
Brunei, an early mover to the online space, has offered clear and accessible information to families for some time now. This portal, britishforcesbrunei.co.uk is a well-used and vital tool for every stage of a family’s overseas journey.
The USA portal BDSUS.info is currently undergoing an overhaul to ensure the topics covered are the most relevant and up to date for what matters to the modern family. It remains packed with important information across a range of topics and features front-page alerts for emerging or recently changed policy and procedures.
AFF welcomes this increase in open resources and, with more digital resources in the pipeline, these developments are making it easier for families to independently research and navigate the complexities of living abroad. This will lead to more informed decisions and a better overseas assignment overall.
GET IN TOUCH
AFF’s overseas team wants to hear your feedback on these portals – email overseassupport@aff.org.uk