The revised mechanism for Local Overseas Allowance (LOA) is based on data provided commercially by Employment Conditions Abroad International (ECA). ECAs cost of living data is updated bi-annually by reference to – among other sources – the results of surveys completed by the employees (in this case us) of their clients (Defence). Information provided by Service Personnel (SP) like ourselves helps to make sure that ECA’s indices reflect the modern lifestyle including our shopping preferences and the living conditions we experience on the ground.
Defence Business Services would like to request our participation in ECA’s Sept 2022 cost of living survey. Input from this survey helps to establish the cost of living indices used in calculating LOA rates. The data collected from SP assigned overseas will be valuable in calculating LOA and this is your chance to contribute to that process.
As LOA is based on a generic overseas cost of living, prices must not be sourced from any military bases or facilities (e.g., BFPO, NAAFI, RIS, BX or Commissary) but from commercial outlets. Travel to collect prices will not be considered as duty travel.
We are looking for volunteers from across our community to join forces and submit a ‘team’ survey with members of the ‘team’ completing their own sections which can be collated together to reduce the impact of completing the survey (which is a little daunting at first glance). Changes were made from the previous survey, so it is imperative that we take the time to take part and have our say. Change can only happen with active involvement from the community.
If you are willing to assist in the collation of the cost survey and have your input into the LOA review, then please email brian.hagan120@mod.gov.uk soonest, so a section of the survey can be allocated.
All contributions to the survey are required by 16 Sep 22.
Any questions, please contact the NSE