• Five Surprising Things About Being an Army Reservist

    Five Surprising Things About Being an Army Reservist

    This article was published on 9 March 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Being an Army reservist is often misunderstood. Many people picture occasional weekends in uniform or assume it is simply a “part-time version” of regular service. In reality, reserve service comes with unique responsibilities, rewards and challenges that can catch people by surprise.

    Whether you are a reservist yourself, thinking about joining, or supporting someone who serves, here are five surprising things about being an Army reservist.

    1. You balance two careers, not one

    One of the biggest surprises is just how much responsibility reservists carry. Most hold a civilian job alongside their military role. That means switching between two very different worlds – often in the same week.

    Reservists develop strong skills in:

    • Time management
    • Leadership
    • Decision-making under pressure
    • Teamwork across different environments

    These skills often benefit civilian employers too, which is why many businesses (including Forces Mutual!) actively support reserve service through the Armed Forces Covenant.

    2. Training and deployment can be significant

    Many people assume reservists only train occasionally. In reality, training commitments can be substantial, especially during key exercises or preparation for deployment.

    Reservists may:

    • Attend weekly evening training
    • Commit to regular weekend exercises
    • Take part in annual training periods
    • Be mobilised for overseas deployments

    This level of commitment can impact family life, travel plans and finances, so forward planning is essential.

    3. Reservists often use their own vehicles and equipment

    Unlike regular forces, reservists often rely on their own vehicles to get to training locations or exercises. This makes practical considerations, such as car insurance, especially important.

    Some reservists also own personal kit or equipment that travels with them between home, work and training. Having appropriate kit insurance can provide reassurance that essential items are protected if lost, damaged or stolen.

    4. Overseas travel isn’t always straightforward

    Another surprise is how complex travel can be for reservists – especially if you’re deployed overseas and planning a holiday.

    Standard travel policies may not always reflect the realities of reserve service. Reservists should always make sure their travel insurance clearly covers their situation, especially when travelling frequently or internationally.

    5. Families play a vital role behind the scenes

    Finally, many people underestimate the role families play in reserve service. Partners and children often adapt to sudden schedule changes, training commitments and periods away from home.

    Support networks are crucial, and clear communication helps everyone feel prepared and informed. When practical matters like insurance are sorted in advance, it can remove one source of stress for the whole household.

    Supporting your reserve lifestyle

    Being an Army reservist is demanding, rewarding and often surprising. From managing two careers to navigating travel and equipment needs, preparation makes a real difference.

    Forces Mutual offers specialist cover designed with the Armed Forces community in mind, including Car Insurance, Kit Insurance and Travel Insurance. These products are built to reflect the realities of service life.

    Terms, conditions & exclusions apply.

     Forces Mutual Car Insurance provided by ERS.

    Forces Mutual Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance, Forces Mutual Kit Start Insurance, and Forces Mutual Travel Insurance is arranged and administered by PMGI Limited (trading as Forces Mutual) and is underwritten by SiriusPoint International Insurance Corporation.

    Sarah Blair

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  • Stay connected, stay protected: Why Forces Mutual Kit Insurances matter

    Stay connected, stay protected: Why Forces Mutual Kit Insurances matter

    In the military community, staying connected isn’t just a convenience it’s a lifeline. Whether you’re away on training, deployed overseas, or working long, unpredictable hours, the ability to send a quick message home or see a familiar face on screen can make all the difference. Your phone, laptop, tablet, or smartwatch aren’t just pieces of tech. They’re your link to the people who matter most.

    Because of that, protecting your devices is essential and that’s where Forces Mutual Kit Insurances steps in. Unlike standard insurance policies, they are built around the real demands and pressures of military life. They recognise that kits get pushed to its limits, environments change rapidly, and accidents happen even when you’re doing everything right.

    With Forces Mutual Kit Insurances, you’ll get cover designed specifically for situations like:

    • Damage or loss during busy training periods, when schedules are intense and accidents are far more likely.
    • Devices knocked, dropped, or crushed on duty, especially in fast-paced or physically demanding roles.
    • Theft at home, on base, or while travelling, because military life often means moving around and living between locations.
    • Peace of mind for those who rely on tech for online banking, welfare support, and essential admin, making sure you’re never left without what you need.
    • Coverage that recognises that life in the Forces often means shared accommodation and communal spaces, where accidental damage or theft can be more common.

    But it’s not just about replacing what’s broken. It’s about peace of mind knowing that if something happens, you can get back online, stay connected, and keep communication flowing when it matters most. For many serving personnel and their families, that reassurance is invaluable.

    Product terms, conditions, and restrictions apply please check the full policy documents for details here.

    Find out more about Forces Mutual Kit & Personal Possession Insurance and Kit Start Insurance here.

    For Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance a monthly administration fee of £1.50 will be added to your premium and collected by Forces Mutual (PMGI).

    Forces Mutual Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance and Kit Start Insurance is arranged and administered by PMGI Limited (trading as Forces Mutual) and underwritten by SiriusPoint International Insurance Corporation.

    Sarah Blair

  • Why Forces Mutual Travel Insurance has your Back this Easter Holiday Season

    Why Forces Mutual Travel Insurance has your Back this Easter Holiday Season

    This article was published on 02 March 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    As the Easter holiday season approaches, many of us begin to feel that familiar pull, the longing for a break, a chance to reconnect with loved ones, or simply a moment to breathe after the relentless pace of service life. Whether you’re planning a long‑awaited family holiday, a last‑minute winter escape, or a well‑deserved adventure overseas, one thing is certain: you’ve earned it.

    But with the excitement of booking flights, packing bags, and counting down the days, it’s easy to overlook one essential part of preparing for time away: travel insurance that truly understands the Armed Forces community.

    Because your life isn’t like everyone else’s

    Serving personnel and military families live unique lives, with unique demands. Sudden postings, training changes, or operational requirements can disrupt even the most carefully planned holidays. That’s why standard travel insurance often doesn’t cut it.

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance is built around your reality.
    It’s designed for the uncertainties, the unexpected changes, and the lifestyle that only those in the military truly understand.

    Protection that travels with you

    Whether your trip takes you across Europe, to exotic long‑haul destinations, or simply somewhere warm where you can finally switch off, Forces Mutual offers:

    • Cover tailored for the Armed Forces community
    • Protection for cancellations and disruptions — including those outside your control
    • Support for lost, damaged, or stolen belongings
    • 24/7 emergency assistance wherever your travels take you
    • Family‑friendly options to keep loved ones protected too

    Because peace of mind shouldn’t be a luxury especially when it comes to your well‑earned time away.

    Time together matters more than ever

    The holiday season is fast approaching, and for many military families, this time of year means something special. It’s a chance to make up for missed birthdays, rearranged anniversaries, and time spent apart. It’s a reminder that the memories you create today become the stories you cherish tomorrow.

    And after everything you give throughout the year, the duty, the commitment, the sacrifice, you deserve to enjoy those moments without worry.

    Take off with confidence

    So as you start planning your getaway or early‑year break, make sure you’re protected by a provider who puts the military community first.

    Product terms, conditions and restriction apply see policy documents for full details click here.

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance: Cover built for service life.

    Find out more here.

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance is arranged and administered by PMGI Limited (trading as Forces Mutual) and is underwritten by SiriusPoint International Insurance Corporation.

    Sarah Blair

  • Choosing the Best Touring Caravan Insurance Policy

    Choosing the Best Touring Caravan Insurance Policy

    This article was published on 23 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    As the weather starts to warm up, you may already be planning your next trip away. But before you hitch up and hit the open road for the new touring season, ensuring your caravan is properly protected is the first step to a stress-free trip.

    With hundreds of providers offering varying levels of cover, finding the right policy can be challenging. Whether you’re a veteran tourer or a first-time owner, this guide breaks down exactly what to look for when choosing touring caravan insurance.

    Understanding core cover: What’s included?

    While every caravanner has unique needs, the most robust policies generally bundle several key protections together. Here is what you should expect as standard:

    • Theft and damage: This covers your caravan against theft or damage during an attempted break-in. It also includes “whoops” moments under accidental damage, such as clipping a kerb or miscalculating a turn near a low branch.
    • Storms and flooding: With the unpredictable UK weather meaning that storms and flooding can never be ruled out, your policy should protect your caravan from the elements.
    • Fire: In the event of a fire caused by electrical faults, cooking accidents, or issues with gas appliances, you’ll be covered.
    • Vandalism: If your caravan is targeted by third parties, resulting in broken windows or graffiti, this ensures you aren’t stuck with the bill to put it right.
    • Public liability: Covers legal costs and compensation if your caravan causes injury to others or damages their property while detached or pitched.
    • Contents and awnings: Ensure your personal belongings, gas bottles, and outdoor furniture are covered. Many people forget to check if their expensive awning is included in the total sum insured!
    • Breakdown and recovery: Specialist recovery is often required for caravans, as standard car breakdown cover rarely extends to the towed unit.
    • Emergency accommodation: If your caravan becomes uninhabitable mid-trip due to a claim, this covers the cost of a local hotel or B&B so your holiday isn’t cut short.

    New-for-Old vs Market Value – Which is right for you?

    One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is how your insurer values your caravan if it’s written off or stolen (known as a “total loss”):

    1. New-for-Old: If your van is stolen or destroyed, you get a brand-new equivalent model. This is ideal for newer vans but usually comes with an age limit (often up to 10 years).
    2. Market Value: You receive a payout from the insurer based on the caravan’s worth at the time of the incident. While this leads to lower premiums, it may not be enough to buy a like-for-like replacement.

    Your touring caravan policy checklist

    Before you commit to a provider, double-check that the policy includes everything you need.

    • Where is your caravan kept when not in use? Does the insurer require a CaSSOA-registered storage site?
    • What security is required? Will you need a specific hitch lock, wheel clamp, or tracker?
    • Are you heading outside of the UK? Is European cover included as standard, and for how many days per year?
    • What are the exclusions? Are you covered for vermin damage, or tyre blowouts?
    • Who is driving? Are friends and family allowed to tow the caravan under your policy?
    • Can you afford the excess? Check both the compulsory and voluntary excess levels before signing.

    Don’t just go with the cheapest premium. Research an insurer’s reputation for claims handling, as a policy is only as good as the support you receive when things go wrong.

    Looking for Touring Caravan Insurance?

    Forces Mutual are pleased to introduce Compass Insurance who are a specialist provider of holiday caravan and residential park home insurance, with over 45 years’ experience, so they can help you find the right cover for you.

    Compass Insurance is part of the Bspoke Insurance Group Ltd, which also includes Forces Mutual, so you know you’re in safe hands.

    You can get a quote here.

    Sarah Blair

  • 2026 Housing Market: What Home Buyers and Mortgage Holders Need to Know

    2026 Housing Market: What Home Buyers and Mortgage Holders Need to Know

    This article was published on 16 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    The Bank of England’s December 2025 interest rate cut marked another step away from the peak borrowing costs of the last two years. While rates are still higher than the ultra-cheap era many of us remember, the direction of travel is now much clearer.

    Here’s what the latest cut means, where that leaves us in 2026, what mortgage deals look like right now and how individuals and couples can prepare to buy or sell property over the year ahead.

    The December 2025 interest rate cut – the bigger picture

    The December cut was the latest in a small series of reductions during 2025, following a long period where the Bank of England held rates steady to bring inflation under control.

    The key points are that:

    • Recent trends indicate interest rates are no longer increasing
    • Rate cuts are happening, but slowly and cautiously
    • We are not heading back to near-zero rates anytime soon

    This matters because mortgage pricing is influenced as much by expectations of future rates as by the base rate itself. This sense of cautious reduction in interest rates is a careful balance between managing the economy and managing inflation.

    Where does that leave rate cuts so far?

    Through 2025, rate reductions happened in small steps rather than dramatic drops. The Bank of England has been clear it wants to avoid cutting too fast and reigniting inflation.

    Lenders had already priced in these expectations months earlier, meaning:

    • Many mortgage deals were improving even before December
    • Borrowers have started to feel real, tangible benefits

    The environment for homebuyers and home-movers is now noticeably more stable than it was just a year ago.

    What’s expected for 2026?

    Current market expectations point to:

    • Further modest rate cuts in 2026, rather than sharp falls
    • A ‘new normal’ where base rates settle higher than pre-2020 levels
    • Mortgage rates becoming more stable and predictable

    In practical terms:

    • Mortgage rates may drift down in small, steady steps
    • Volatility should reduce compared to the last few years
    • Lenders are likely to compete more aggressively on pricing
    • For buyers, sellers and anyone remortgaging, this means it’s now much easier to plan your next steps

    What mortgage deals are available now?

    Mortgage pricing has improved noticeably compared to 12–18 months ago.

    Fixed-rate deals are more competitive, especially at 2- and 5-year terms, we’re seeing:

    • Five‑year fixes appealing to buyers wanting long-term certainty
    • Two‑year fixes chosen by those anticipating further rate drops
    • More affordability flexibility from lenders
    • A wider choice of products for first-time buyers, movers and re-mortgagers

    What this means for buyers in 2026

    If you’re planning to buy in the next 6–12 months:

    1. Affordability is improving
    Lower rates mean borrowing power is gradually increasing, which helps first-time buyers and movers alike

    2. Competition may return
    As confidence improves, more buyers will re-enter the market. That can mean more competition for good properties

    3. Preparation matters more than timing
    Getting ‘’mortgage‑ready’ is more important than trying to predict rate bottoms

    What you should do now:

    • Get a mortgage Agreement in Principle early
    • Review your credit profile
    • Build a realistic budget that works even if rates don’t fall much further

    What this means for sellers

    For sellers, improving mortgage affordability is positive news.

    You can expect a larger pool of active buyers, with fewer sales falling through due to mortgage issues and gradually improving confidence. However, price growth is likely to remain modest and buyers are still value-conscious and well-informed.

    Seller preparation tips:

    • Avoid overpricing – today’s buyers are well‑informed
    • Make sure your onward mortgage options are clear
    • Be ready to move when the right offer appears

    Homeowners coming to the end of a fixed deal

    If you’re coming off a fixed rate in 2026:

    • You’re likely to remortgage at a lower rate than those rolling off in 2023–24
    • But payments may still be higher than your original deal

    Action points:

    • Start reviewing options 6 months before your deal ends
    • Don’t default to your lender’s standard variable rate
    • Consider your risk comfort when choosing between fixing or a variable rate

    How couples and individuals can prepare for the year ahead

    Whether buying, selling or remortgaging, preparation is key.

    Financial preparation:

    • Stress-test your budget at slightly higher rates
    • Reduce unsecured debt where possible
    • Build a buffer for moving costs and rate changes

    Strategic preparation:

    • Be clear on your timeframes
    • Understand how rate choices affect long-term plans
    • Get advice early, not after you’ve found a property

    Summary

    • The December 2025 cut confirms that rates are trending downward, but gradually
    • Mortgage deals are already improving and competition between lenders is increasing
    • 2026 looks more stable, predictable and buyer-friendly than the last two years
    • Preparation and good advice matter more than ever

    Daniel Mumford the Managing Director of Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd stated that “conditions look a lot more favourable over the next 12 months, with increased competition and improving interests rate, but if the last 36 months have taught us anything, the world can be an unpredictable place and as such if the opportunity ever exists to secure a new mortgage deal at todays terms, that would always be advisable. However with a view if things do improve you can still take advantage of them, which is a concept we are happy to assist with and could prove really valuable if market conditions ever changed for the worse”.

    Navigating the mortgage market is easier with expert support. That’s where the Forces Mutual mortgage advice service – provided by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd, comes in, supporting serving Military personnel and their families by helping them find the right mortgage deal by providing:

    • Fee-free, impartial mortgage advice
    • Access to thousands of mortgage deals across the market
    • Specialist support for complex income and military‑specific needs
    • Help with first‑time buys, home moves and remortgages
    • A dedicated adviser throughout the process

    Whether you want to understand your borrowing potential, secure a competitive rate, or plan-ahead for later in the year, the mortgage advice service can help you make confident, informed decisions.

    Important things you need to know

    PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual, has chosen Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd to provide customers with a mortgage advice service. Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd will provide you with independent mortgage advice and make a recommendation based on your circumstances and requirements. You will not receive advice or any recommendation from Forces Mutual.

    If you take out a mortgage recommended by Grange Mortgage & Protection Services Ltd, PMGI Limited will receive a fee for the introduction which is a percentage based on the loan amount. We may also earn an additional fee based on performance of our account. If you wish to know the fee we receive please contact Grange Mortgages.

    Grange Mortgages & Protection Services Ltd, is an Appointed Representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd. Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

    YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

    Find out more

    Sarah Blair

  • Protect the Moments that Matter: Why Travel Insurance Matters More for Military families

    Protect the Moments that Matter: Why Travel Insurance Matters More for Military families

    This article was published on 3 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    For many military families, life moves at a pace that others rarely see. Schedules change overnight. Plans are rewritten at the last minute. Birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries sometimes happen with an empty seat at the table. And when precious time together finally arrives, whether it’s a long weekend, block leave, or a holiday abroad, every moment feels even more meaningful.

    That’s why protecting those moments matters.

    As the holiday season approaches and families begin to plan long awaited breaks, one thing is clear: after everything the Armed Forces community gives, that time together deserves to be carefree, uninterrupted, and fully enjoyed. And that’s exactly where Forces Mutual Travel Insurance steps in.

    Forces Mutual has a long history of supporting serving personnel, and their families. Choosing us means choosing a provider that offers:

    • Peace of mind that your trip is protected
    • Cover for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings
    • Protection for children and family members
    • Helps ensure your well‑earned downtime stays stress‑free

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance

    Find out more here.

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance is arranged and administered by PMGI Limited (trading as Forces Mutual) and is underwritten by SiriusPoint International Insurance Corporation.

    Sarah Blair

  • Start the New Year protected: Why Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance and Kit Start Insurance matters

    Start the New Year protected: Why Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance and Kit Start Insurance matters

    This article was published on 9 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    As we welcome a fresh start in 2026, it’s the perfect time to think about safeguarding what matters most. For those serving in the Armed Forces or connected to the military community, your kit and personal possessions aren’t just items, they’re essential to your role and lifestyle. That’s why Kit Start Insurance and Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance are so important.

    Why do you need insurance?

    Life can be unpredictable, and accidents happen when you least expect them. Here’s why having the right cover is essential:

    • Protect your kit: Your military kit is vital for your duties. If it’s lost, stolen, or damaged, replacing it can be costly and stressful.
    • Cover for everyday items: Phones, laptops, watches, your personal possessions go everywhere with you. Insurance ensures you’re not out of pocket if something goes wrong.
    • Peace of mind anywhere: Whether you’re at home, on base, or deployed, you’ll have the reassurance that your belongings are protected.
    • Affordable & tailored: Forces Mutual offers cover designed for the unique needs of the Armed Forces community, with rates and flexible options to suit your needs

    Product terms, conditions and restriction apply see policy documents for full details here.

    Start 2026 with Confidence

    Don’t let unexpected losses disrupt your year. Protect your kit and personal possessions today with Forces Mutual. It’s quick, easy, and gives you the security you deserve.

    Find out more about Forces Mutual Kit & Personal Possession Insurance and Kit Start Insurance

    Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance. A monthly administration fee of £1.50 will be added to your premium and collected by Forces Mutual (PMGI).

    Forces Mutual Kit & Personal Possessions Insurance and Kit Start Insurance is arranged and administered by PMGI Limited (trading as Forces Mutual) and is underwritten by SiriusPoint International Insurance Corporation.

    Sarah Blair

  • Electric Car Incentives: Is Now the Right Time to Make the Switch?

    Electric Car Incentives: Is Now the Right Time to Make the Switch?

    This article was published on 3 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming part of everyday life, many UK drivers – including those in the Armed Forces and emergency services – are asking: is now the right time to switch?

    From government incentives to lower running costs, there are strong reasons to consider going electric. In this article, we’ll explore the current incentives, practical benefits, and how Forces Mutual can support you with car insurance tailored to your needs.

    Why Consider an Electric Car?

    Electric vehicles offer practical and financial benefits beyond reducing your carbon footprint:

    • Lower running costs – Electricity is generally cheaper than petrol or diesel, and EVs typically need less maintenance.
    • Clean Air Zone exemptions – EVs are often exempt from charges in low-emission zones.
    • Congestion Charge changes from 2026 – Until the end of 2025, battery-electric cars were fully exempt from the London Congestion Charge. Since 2 January 2026, this full exemption has ended: electric cars now must pay the Congestion Charge but can receive a discounted rate (for example a 25 % discount via Auto Pay), meaning EVs will still pay less than petrol/diesel vehicles when driving in central London.
    • Government grants – While some schemes have ended, others still offer support for home charging installations.

    Current Incentives for UK Drivers

    There are numerous electric car incentives available:

    The government’s new Electric Car Grant launched in July 2025 and offers up to £3,750 off the cost of a new electric car, helping more drivers make the switch. The initiative also supports sustainable manufacturing across the automotive sector. The grant is only available for vehicles that have been approved as eligible and the list of cars/vehicles eligible for the grant can be found here: Eligible Grant Vehicles. It’s worth noting that the list is regularly updated and you don’t need to apply for it – your car dealer or manufacturer will handle this for you.

    The EV Chargepoint Grant offers up to £350 off the cost of installing a home charger, available to anyone who owns and lives in a flat or rents and lives in a residential property. Please note that is grant is not available on military bases or Ministry of Defence (MOD)-provided quarters. The MOD has been installing EV charging points at various sites to support its non-combat vehicle fleets and personnel. It may also be possible to have an EV charge point fitted at your Service Family Accommodation (SFA), but please check local availability.

    Is It the Right Time for You?

    Switching to an electric car is a personal decision, but with fuel prices remaining high and the UK’s plan for all cars to be 100% zero emission by 2035, now could be an ideal time to consider the move.

    EV technology and charging networks continue to improve, making electric driving more practical whether you’re commuting to base, travelling between stations, or planning family trips.

    Protect Your EV with Forces Mutual Car Insurance

    Whether you’re already driving electric or just exploring your options, having the right protection matters.  Forces Mutual Car Insurance is designed with the Military community in mind, giving you peace of mind, reliable cover and dedicated support.

    For more information about Forces Mutual Car Insurance and how you could benefit, visit our Car Insurance page here or call 0151 363 5290

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Sarah Blair

  • Buying a car – do I need to pay the luxury car tax?

    Buying a car – do I need to pay the luxury car tax?

    This article was published on 2 February 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Buying a car? If it’s new, high-spec, or pricey, you might hear about the luxury car tax. Many drivers only spot it on paperwork, and it can be a shock.

    Here’s a quick guide: who pays it, how much, and what it means for new, used, and electric cars.

    What is the luxury car tax?

    • Not a separate tax. It’s officially the Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) expensive car supplement.
    • Extra annual charge if your car had a list price exceeding £40,000 when new.
    • Applies whether you buy outright, on finance, or second-hand.

    When did it start?

    • Introduced in April 2017.

    How much is it?

    • £450 per year (2024/25 rate)
    • For 5 years
    • Starting from the second year your car is registered

    This is on top of the standard VED rate.

    Tip: Check before you buy as the extra cost can add up.

    Second-hand cars

    • Based on original list price when new, not what you paid.
    • Buy a used car under £40,000? You might still pay if it originally cost £40,000+ and is within the 5-year period.

    Always check the car’s tax status before buying.

    Electric vehicles (EVs)

    • EVs were exempt, but from 1 April 2025, they pay VED and may face the luxury car tax.
    • Cars exceeding £40,000: luxury car tax applies.
    • November 2025 Budget update: EV threshold raised to £50,000 (effective April 2026).
    • Retrospective relief: EVs bought between £40,001–£50,000 after April 2025 no longer pay.
    • The above does not apply to hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars.

    Protecting what matters on the road

    Insurance is just as important as knowing tax rules, whether you’re driving a brand-new car, a second-hand vehicle, or an electric model.

    Forces Mutual offers Car Insurance designed with the needs of serving, retired and veteran members of the Armed Forces, Staff and their families. To find out more and see if it’s right for you, take a look at our car insurance options today.

    You can either call us on 0151 363 5290 or go online here.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    Sarah Blair

  • Creating a Resilient Daily Routine for Armed Forces Life in 2026

    Creating a Resilient Daily Routine for Armed Forces Life in 2026

    This article was published on 27 January 2026. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Armed Forces life is fast-paced, structured, and often unpredictable – whether you’re deployed, relocating, training, or balancing family commitments. Building a resilient routine helps you stay grounded, maintain wellbeing, and feel more in control, even when your environment changes.

    1. Establish Flexible Core Habits

    Because military life can shift quickly, rigid routines don’t always work. Instead, choose a few flexible habits you can take with you anywhere – drinking enough water, five minutes of stretching, reviewing daily priorities, or setting aside time to connect with loved ones. These “anchor habits” support stability through change.

    2. Prioritise Quality Rest When You Can

    Sleep is essential for operational performance and mental resilience. Small adjustments – darkening your sleep space, reducing blue light exposure, or practising wind-down breathing – can boost sleep depth even when hours are limited. Protecting rest pays off during training cycles, exercises, and deployments.

    3. Make Time for Mental Readiness

    Mental resilience is as important as physical fitness. Incorporating brief reflection, mindfulness, or structured downtime can help manage stress and keep you focused. Many serving personnel find grounding exercises or journaling particularly effective during busy periods or moves.

    4. Keep Your Body Moving Sustainably

    You don’t need long sessions to support physical resilience. Short bursts of stretching, mobility, or bodyweight exercises can counteract long days on your feet, heavy kit, or extended travel. Consistency is more valuable than intensity.

    5. Strengthen Your Support Network

    Whether it’s colleagues, welfare teams, family, or friends back home, support is a critical part of resilience. Regular check-ins – even quick ones – can make transitions, deployments, and high-pressure phases easier to manage.

    With simple, adaptable habits in place, Armed Forces personnel can build a resilient routine that supports readiness, wellbeing, and long-term health wherever their service takes them.

    You can learn more about Forces Mutual and how we support the Armed Forces here.

    Sarah Blair