Welcome to the first edition of the SSAFA Community Engagement Bulletin - September 2026
This monthly bulletin has been created to bring together updates and information about Community Engagement. It is a space to help us stay connected as One community and One SSAFA.
Each month you might expect to find:
- Network news and updates from across Community Engagement.
- Examples of great practice from branches, volunteers and staff.
- Upcoming events and opportunities to get involved.
- Resources, guidance and tools to support your role.
- Success stories and impact highlights demonstrating the difference our community engagement activities make.
- Spotlights on innovative projects and partnerships from around the network.
Whether you're a volunteer or member of staff, we hope this bulletin helps you stay informed, inspired and connected, while showcasing the fantastic work being delivered in support of our four Community Engagement pillars: Support, Belonging, Connection and Fundraising.
Thank you for everything you do to strengthen SSAFA's presence in communities across the UK and overseas. We hope you enjoy this month's bulletin.
Screensteps updates: Volunteer Knowledgebase
Over the last few months, work has been taking place to review and improve how we manage content within Screensteps, this includes the Volunteer Knowledgebase.
The Knowledgebase has been reorganised to make it easier for colleagues to navigate and find relevant information. The new structure groups content into four main areas:
- Volunteer Handbook – General SSAFA information relevant to all colleagues
- Casework – Casework specific information
- Branches – Branch specific information
- Specialist Services – Dedicated sections for each specialist service
Below you will find a short video walking you through the Branch handbook.
We now have clearer guidance to help you understand when and how branch funds can be used to support beneficiaries & Community Engagement activities. Check out the following links in the Branch handbook that set out the approval process and key considerations to help branches provide timely support while maintaining good governance and accountability.
Use of funds for Community Engagement
Use of funds for Community Engagement additional guidance:
https://ssafa-volunteer-kb.screenstepslive.com/a/2107993-use-of-funds-additional-guidance
Use of funds for Casework:
SSAFA Branches - Use of funds for Casework | Caseworking | SSAFA Volunteer Knowledgebase
Here is a reminder of some of the recently published policies and guidance that can now be found in the Branch Handbook
Updated purpose for Go Assemble Document Hub
Following consultation, the purpose of the GoAssemble Document Hub has been clarified. It will be used by local branches and Specialist Welfare Services teams to share local files, such as branch meeting minutes, non-sensitive marketing materials, and event planning documents.
Ongoing Data safety review
An audit of GoAssemble was carried out by the Data Governance team in April, concluding that GoAssemble is a fundamentally safe system with appropriate security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA). The review also identified opportunities to strengthen areas such as permission structures, privacy notices, and consistent use through improved guidance. The Data Governance team will continue to lead this work.
Remember: If you experience a system issue or need help with GoAssemble, use the “Contact Us” button to submit a support request directly to the VE team. Providing clear details about the issue will help the team investigate and respond more effectively. The centralised ticketing system also supports better tracking, helping the team improve services and make the support process more efficient.
Looking forward
As announced at the Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM), a GoAssemble feedback loop will launch in October, led by the Welfare Operations Project Manager who will be working closely with the Head of Volunteering.
The feedback loop will help us better understand user experiences, identify common themes, and ensure future improvements are guided by evidence from volunteers and employees across the organisation. Feedback already shared by colleagues will also be taken into account as part of this work. We will share further details on how all GoAssemble users can get involved closer to the launch.
Celebrating 50 years' voluntary service with SSAFA
Congratulations to Glasgow volunteer Charles Scott, who is celebrating a half century as a volunteer with SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
Great teamwork at the AFC, Harrogate
A big shout-out to SSAFA volunteers Beverley Robb and Bob Walton, who represented SSAFA North Yorkshire brilliantly at the Army Foundation College Harrogate Passing Out Parade. Thanks also to mentor volunteer Shirley Wilson from SSAFA Durham (Hartlepool) who came along to support too.
If you have any feedback, questions or comments about anything in this months Bulletin please dont hesitate to get in touch - you can either reach out to your Regional Community Engagmenet Manager directly or reach the Community Engagement Team via our mail box [email protected]
Thank you for everything you do to strengthen communities, support beneficiaries and champion SSAFA across the UK and overseas.