Introduction The Global Support Organisation (GSO) provides non-operational support to around 5,000 United Kingdom (UK) Ministry of Defence (MOD) personnel and families on permanent assignments overseas. GSO is a sub-unit of the the UK’s Strategic Command (UKStratCom). GSO provides support, in addition to supporting UK Defence activity, via three pillars of delivery as outlined in… Read More
Introduction The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. Outline The scheme encompasses Bronze, Silver and Gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant. The ERS… Read More
“As testament to the value that pastoral support brings Service Personnel, the [UK] Ministry of Defence has introduced Armed Forces Non-Religious Pastoral Officers (NRPO) to further bolster the support given to our Armed Forces. The Armed Forces chaplaincies have been providing pastoral support and moral and spiritual guidance for over a century, with chaplains being… Read More
1.0 Introduction and Background Information This article provides an overview of the United Kingdom’s (UKs) Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA). It outlines relevant legislation, applying to both the UK and Scotland, as well as a definition of a public authority. It also outlines how to make a request, vexatious requests, refusals, and exemptions. It… Read More
Introduction Did you know that if you wish to find information about an individual (such as medals awarded) – unless the individual died in Service – you are required to provide a copy of a death certificate as proof of death in recognition of the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD’s) duty of care to their next… Read More
Introduction Background checks have become a routine part of modern life, especially in the realm of employment. Companies and organisations of all kinds perform such checks to ensure that potential hires are trustworthy and qualified individuals. However, not all background checks are created equal. The military, for example, has an even higher standard for its… Read More
1.0 Introduction Many roles within defence and public sectors require prospective candidates to undergo security checks before the assignment can begin. This article will provide a brief outline of the security vetting these prospective candidates may undertake. This process is collectively known as national security vetting (NSV), and gets progressively more intrusive the higher the… Read More
Boot Camp & Military Fitness Institute 