https://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/en-USTelligent Community 12https://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/the-fam-team-need-your-helpThu, 26 Aug 2021 08:16:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:b6bb6f9e-fd00-4175-87d1-8d2490ff25eaColinDM01Can you help us shape your future accommodation offer? If you are serving at Faslane, a Future Accommodation Model (FAM) pilot site – then we need your views! This summer, the FAM Team want to talk to Service Personnel and your families at Faslane to understand in more detail your experiences of the FAM Pilot. Your insights will be used as part of our research to understand how well the Future Accommodation Model is working at Faslane and shape the design of the future accommodation policy, affecting the entire UK Armed Forces. If you are interested in taking part, please email People-Accommodation-FAMSurvey@mod.gov.uk. We would also like to hear from spouses and partners about their experience of FAM – please encourage them to participate. If they are interested, please ask them to register their interest by emailing People-Accommodation-FAMSurvey@mod.gov.uk Participation in this research is entirely voluntary. Your responses will only be used by the FAM Team and will not be shared with anyone in your Chain of Command. The research will mainly take place during the workday – your participation during this time should be supported by your Chain of Command. FAM Teamhttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/home-matters-summer-2021Wed, 04 Aug 2021 10:19:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:4326a7a8-e31c-4256-9b4a-73ce9fa5f011HQNationalIOThe latest copy of Home Matters published by JSHAO, is attached here. More JSHAO information and back copies of Home Matters are available here . JSHAO invite you to take part in a feedback survey about their services, including the Home Matters magazine and others. See here for the the survey.home mattersaccommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/future-defence-infrastructure-services-fdis-accommodation-contracts-awardedTue, 29 Jun 2021 12:42:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:e7edd859-6a7f-4a83-8420-5c3d9a4e6ad9HQNationalIOA message from DIO’s Head of Accommodation, Air Commodore James Savage I am pleased to confirm that we have reached another important milestone in the transition to the Future Defence Infrastructure Services (FDIS) Accommodation contracts with the contracts being awarded today. These contracts, worth £650m, will replace the National Housing Prime (NHP) contract from 1 March 2022 and will fulfil the Defence requirement for the delivery of effective and responsive accommodation services for Service personnel and their families. The £144m National Accommodation Management Services (NAMS) contract includes the operation of a National Service Centre, which will be a single point of contact for requests from occupants living in SFA. This contract has been awarded to Pinnacle Group Ltd. Four Regional Accommodation Maintenance Services (RAMS) contracts, worth £506m, will provide statutory and mandatory checks, repair and maintenance services and the preparation of allocated properties for Service families. These contracts have been awarded to: Northern: Amey Community Ltd Central: Amey Community Ltd South East: Vivo Defence Ltd South West: Vivo Defence Ltd Accommodation is such an important part of family life for Service personnel, and safe, secure and well-maintained homes support effective operational capability. That is why we collaborated closely with the individual Services and their respective Families Federations to develop these contracts and ensure that the needs of our people are fully considered. Therefore, it is important to recognise that the new contracts will be different – they have been developed with Service families firmly in mind. As such, they offer the opportunity to break decisively from the past and to build on the commitments made by all suppliers to innovate and deliver more responsive and flexible services to Service families. Importantly, contracted performance standards have been informed by industry best practice and include targets for customer satisfaction, with financial incentives for contractors to exceed the minimum contracted standards. I look forward to working with Amey and the other new suppliers to transition smoothly from the NHP to the new FDIS contracts, and to ensure delivery performance is maintained. In addition, we will keep SFA stakeholders and Service families informed about the changes and opportunities the new contracts will bring as we move towards the In-Service Dates of 1 March 2022. More details will become available as we approach those In-Service Dates, with comprehensive guides to the new contracts to be issued to all families in SFA in good time before the contracts go live. Please do keep checking Gov.uk as all the latest SFA FDIS guidance is there, and we will be updating those pages as appropriate. I have also written a short blog about the new accommodation contracts that can be viewed here .SFAaccommodationhousingAmeyhttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/f/forum/21/test-post-2-accommodationMon, 21 Jun 2021 12:35:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:3da155d9-5b6f-4e8d-be6a-7873e9d7eab8HQNationalIOtest 2https://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/f/forum/15/lets-talk-about-tests/13Mon, 21 Jun 2021 12:34:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:e2f3154e-c13c-4a37-907d-f07585a518e4HQNationalIOChat chat chathttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/f/forum/15/lets-talk-about-tests/14Mon, 21 Jun 2021 12:34:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:4a9f89b9-ef28-4acf-ab8a-bb193ee99ceeHQNationalIOI agreehttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/m/resources/5Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:06:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:33f97551-3eca-4830-b7ce-715e8266ebf3HQNationalIOrelocationaccommodationInformation Sheethousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/m/resourcesWed, 09 Jun 2021 09:55:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:56cd28b2-9c00-4961-9a40-2e3c7b9d686eResources for Accommodation Topic Areahttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/m/galleryWed, 09 Jun 2021 09:53:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:ec1f6e23-6727-429c-8290-96ef6019452fGallery for Accommodation Topic Areahttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/the-future-accommodation-model-fam---social-media-channelsWed, 26 May 2021 11:14:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:ddacb287-dac9-403f-a712-2d5111f5ca87HQNationalIOThe Ministry of Defence (MOD) has been looking at how it can improve the accommodation offer for service personnel (SP), to make it fairer and more flexible, whilst keeping it affordable for the MOD. Since September 2019, the MOD has been piloting a new way of providing living accommodation to personnel and their families. The Future Accommodation Model Pilot is at HMNB Clyde, Aldershot Garrison and RAF Wittering. A Facebook and Twitter account have been created to share information on the pilot and the opportunities available; please visit the accounts and contact us with any questions you may have. FB -  https://www.facebook.com/349478419429738/ Twitter -  https://twitter.com/UKMODFAM?s=20accommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/statutory-and-mandatory-checks-on-service-family-accommodationWed, 26 May 2021 11:13:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:15a6ff70-6199-4cf9-ba2f-0f0d4d2a3623HQNationalIOCarrying out Statutory and Mandatory checks is a legal requirement for Landlords, including DIO. These checks are essential to maintain a safe and compliant SFA estate, as well as reducing the risk of failure to critical infrastructure. We do understand the concerns of Service families, especially those who are isolating and/or shielding, in allowing access to their homes for these checks can be carried out. However, the number of overdue checks has risen significantly, and now presents a clear danger to affected occupants. This is despite guidance on how safety checks will be carried out, fully in line with Government and Devolved Administration advice. This has been reinforced by a  video animation  to reassure families that the safety of occupants and Amey operatives is a priority when checks are carried out to keep their homes, and those of their neighbours, safe. If we are unable to resolve the issue, we will need to consider more robust measures to gain access to properties to allow these vital safety checks to be carried out.accommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/safety-information-from-amey-ref-sfasWed, 26 May 2021 11:11:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:dee1048b-5816-4f7a-900b-1751eeec746cHQNationalIO1. SFA safety notice regarding internal fire doors   Many SFA have fire doors fitted, especially SFA that have an integral garage and are over two storeys. Building regulations require that these properties are fitted with self-closing fire doors to all habitable rooms for fire safety.   These fire doors can close sharply and there is a risk that young children could trap their fingers on the hinge or closing sides of the door as it shuts. Please take care with young children around these doors for their safety and protection.   If you are concerned that your fire door may be faulty, or shuts too quickly, please contact Amey to request for the door to be inspected.   2. Delays to SFA Compensation Scheme payments   Please note, delays are still being experienced in processing claims for SFA missed appointments and move-in failures. This is due to the constraints caused by Covid-19. Additional support is being provided by DIO to assist with processing claims.   Please be assured that all claims will be reviewed and individuals will receive notification of the outcome in due course.   We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank you for your continued patience as we work towards returning to normal processing times.accommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/joint-service-housing-advice-officeWed, 26 May 2021 11:09:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:7784dda5-c450-41b0-9f7c-c5c644daaa2cHQNationalIOThe  JSHAO  is the MOD’s tri-service focal point to provide service personnel and their dependants with civilian housing information for those wishing to move to civilian accommodation at any time in their career, and for those during resettlement to assist with the transition to civilian life.   JSHAO have produced the following video with information and guidance on Civilian Housing Options:  Videoaccommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/installation-of-electric-vehicle-charging-points-evcp-in-sfaWed, 26 May 2021 11:07:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:dfd7f26b-661f-499b-968c-f015201fd80cHQNationalIODIO remains committed to installing EVCPs in individual SFA. They are also installing a number of EVCPs as part of the Project Speed programme throughout the UK. The number of EVCPs being installed under Project Speed means that DIO has had to run a full tender exercise in accordance with Government procurement rules. In addition, EVCP installers are required to hold a specific qualification and training for staff is underway. They now expect the EVCP programme in summer 2021. In the meantime, Amey has kept a record of all requests for installation and will start to contact occupants who expressed an interest from the of end of May 2021 to arrange installation surveys. Any SFA residents who have firm plans to purchase an electric vehicle should register their interest through the NHP Helpdesk . Please note , if you install an EVCP without requesting approval, you may incur charges when moving out. (Also the attached image is generic stock image - not what will be installed)   DIO Corporate Communications Defence Infrastructure Organisation  Website:  www.gov.uk/dio/sfaaccommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/improving-access-to-social-housing-for-members-of-the-armed-forcesWed, 26 May 2021 11:02:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:8b61e8b4-6daf-458f-9668-5acb9af5cc8dHQNationalIOIn a welcome move, the government has published  statutory guidance   for local authorities which should improve access to social housing for members of the Armed Forces community, including estranged spouses and veterans.  The requirement to have lived in an area for 2 years before being eligible for social housing should be dropped for veterans with health issues related to their service and former service spouses.   The government is committed to ensuring that members of the Armed Forces community face no disadvantage in the provision of public services.   This statutory guidance is intended to assist local authorities when considering applications for social housing from members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families.accommodationhousinghttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/armed-forces-and-veterans-access-to-social-housingTue, 25 May 2021 12:56:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:5d1484cc-f6c3-47f9-aee8-264d5bf1c065HQNationalIONew measures announced to provide improved access for members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and their Families to social housing. The Government has set out how councils should ensure members of the Armed Forces and Veterans who need support with their mental health, because of conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, are given the priority for social housing they deserve. New measures also mean former spouses or civil partners of Serving Personnel will be given extra support when applying for social housing. They will be exempted from rules requiring them to be a local resident before being given social housing in the area to ensure they are not disadvantaged when applying. Announced Armed Forces Day (27 June 2020) by Housing Minister Christopher Pincher.   Full details here.resettlementaccommodationhousingwelfarehttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/amey-sfa---safety-compensation-updatesTue, 25 May 2021 12:55:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:9fd3e3ca-3486-41d7-9399-2d13843bdc17HQNationalIOSFA SAFETY NOTICE REGARDING WINDOW RESTRICTORS The safety of SFA occupants is a top priority. There is a risk of children or vulnerable adults falling from open windows if restrictors are not engaged or not operating correctly. If restrictors are not working or windows can be opened more than 100mm when restrictors are engaged, then please report the fault to the Amey help desk immediately on 0800 707 600 to ensure a repair is carried out. Please note that window restrictors must not be disengaged for any reason where children or vulnerable members of your household are at risk from falling.   DELAYS IN SFA COMPENSATION PAYMENTS Delays are being experienced in processing claims for SFA Missed Appointments and Move In failures. This is due to the constraints caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and has been compounded by the voucher provider being unable to issue vouchers during the lockdown period. We are working hard to return to normal processing times and have seconded additional staff to assist in this. Please be assured that all claims will be reviewed, and individuals will receive notification of the outcome in due course. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience. https://www.ameydefenceservices.co.uk/housing/accommodationhousingsafetyhttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/have-you-let-your-house-outTue, 25 May 2021 12:52:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:f135b344-9cd5-4882-940a-3cfbe5bfeec0HQNationalIOIf so, be aware that due to COVID, the Government has extended the period of notice , currently landlords must give tenants to six months and this will be reducing to 4 months from June .  Some families returning from overseas postings have found that tenants are unwilling to vacate properties. In Scotland the law allows for repossession of homes for the owners' use, but not in England.   Further information is available  https://bit.ly/3lTz5ocaccommodationhousingreclocationhttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/joint-service-housing-advice-office---home-matters-spring-editionTue, 25 May 2021 12:35:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:5264e50c-259b-4919-bbd7-01dcf5932944HQNationalIOJoint Service Housing Advice Office  (JSHAO) produces quarterly editions of the Ho me Matters; Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter. The intention is to convey as much relevant information to the reader in as timely a fashion as possible. The magazine focuses on different regions within the UK, particularly in relation to Local Authority information, and contains information and articles designed to help you when you are considering your civilian housing options.   Download the spring edition here:  Home Matters Spring 2021.pdfresettlementaccommodationhousingreclocationhttps://uat-forum.royalnavy.mod.uk/topics/accommodation/b/announcements/posts/2021-jshao-brief-and-workshop-datesTue, 25 May 2021 12:29:00 GMTb28a645c-0ea2-4600-866f-e043a0fddeae:a65ddedf-8ba3-4492-a093-3c7fe6bec7e8HQNationalIOSee the image below for upcoming JSHAO virtual briefs & workshops.   The JSHAO is the MOD’s tri-service focal point to provide service personnel and their dependants with civilian housing information for those wishing to move to civilian accommodation at any time in their career, and for those during resettlement to assist with the transition to civilian life.   Gov.uk information pages.   All bookings are to be made via email: RC-Pers-JSHAO-0Mailbox@mod.gov.ukresettlementaccommodationhousing