PCS to UK
Personal enrichment in The UK
Stars and Stripes
May 22, 2026
Volunteering is a wonderful way to get involved in your community. (Paul Hanley | Paul - stock.adobe.com)
Source
Our 2026-2027 “Welcome to The U.K.” magazine is a guide for newcomers and is a vital resource for understanding your new home in England.
There is plenty to do during your tour in the U.K.! From on-installation employment or education to volunteer work and travel, your time in England has a lot to offer.
Visit your local base M&FRC for one-on-one support, and to update your resume or research job and volunteer opportunities.
Federal Positions (NAF and GS): Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) positions are offered with MWR and FSS and other on-installation organizations. Hours range from full-time to flexible part-time with varying employment benefits. General Schedule (GS) positions are offered through government organizations on installations and can be part or full-time. Search for NAF and GS positions at usajobs.gov.
DoWEA-Europe: On-installation schools offer full and part-time employment as support staff, substitute teachers and administrative employees. Find certified teaching positions at: www.dodea.edu/offices/human-resources. Find local support positions at usajobs.gov.
Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES): For positions at AAFES facilities like the Exchange and food courts, visit aafes.com/Applymyexchange.
Defense Commissary Agency (DECA): Jobs at usajobs.gov.
Defense Contractors: Job opportunities in technology, management, accounting and administration are available with contracting firms. Your installation’s contracting office and M&FRC may have information about vacancies.
Local British Jobs: The Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) allows command-sponsored dependents of military or civilian government employees to obtain jobs on the local British economy without needing a work permit. Search for local positions at findajob.dwp.gov.uk. You will need to have the following.
A U.K. visa/vignette in your passport.
You must apply for a National Insurance Number (NIN). Visit gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number for detailed instructions.
Proof of your current U.K. address, such as a utility statement.
A pounds sterling bank account for payment.
When working on the local British economy you will be subject to U.K. income tax by the Inland Revenue Office, and you will still need to file for U.S. income tax. Visit your installation’s Legal Office for more details.
You can further your college education while stationed in England. Visit the M&FRC to find out about programs and assistance.
University of Maryland Global Campus: Undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs via online coursework.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Certifications, undergraduate and graduate degrees. Offers online and in-person courses.
Other schools with online coursework: www.military.com/education or www.militaryonesource.mil. Many U.S.-based colleges and universities offer online courses and discounts for military-affiliated students.
Volunteering is a wonderful way to get involved in your community. Start by making connections.
Visit your installation’s M&FRC, Post Office, the American Red Cross and the USO.
A Key Support Liaison (KSL) is a volunteer within a squadron selected by the Commander to be a link between spouses and the unit. KSLs help newcomers by reaching out before they arrive to help answer questions they may have before moving, and they provide newcomers with the resources available for adjusting to a new base. KSLs are there to support and help newcomers in their transition and throughout their tour in the U.K.
Find local spouses clubs, interest groups or sports organizations to join.
Do you enjoy writing? Visit our submissions information page for details on how to write for Stripes Europe.