What Is The Commitment For Training?

That depends on how much time you can afford to give to it, but to become a trained Territorial soldier in an Independent Unit and to gain your annual financial bonus you will need to do a minimum of 27 days a year.  This would normally comprise of a two-week camp, about 6-8 weekends a year and a number of training nights which take place on a Wednesday evening weekly.

Can I Leave At Any Time?

You will sign on for an initial period of 3 years.  However, non-attendance for a period of time (if not discussed) will signal that you are no longer interested in being a member and you could be discharged as a result.  You can apply to leave at any time but there is no point in joining if you lack determination and commitment.

How Much Will I Get Paid?

TA pay is comparable with their Regular Army colleagues, the TA also have the added bonus of having a tax-free bounty at the end of each financial year providing you have completed your military annual training tests and have attended the minimum amount of training days (27 for The Royal Wessex Yeomanry).  Pay scales go from Level 1 to 7 and is increased annually whilst the soldier is holding that rank, see below for more information.

How Fit Do I Have To Be?

There are standards to be met but provided you are reasonably fit and prepared to make the effort there will be no problem.  Your unit will help you develop your fitness throughout your training but the onus is on you to get fit and then maintain the standard.  Before you will be allowed to take part in any military training (fitness or other) you will first be required to pass a full medical.

What Are The Age Limits?

Seventeen is the lower age limit for joining either as a potential officer or recruit; the upper limit is determined very much by what you have to offer although it is normally 36 for officer entry and 43 for soldier.  There are exceptions to the upper age limit for those with certain specialist skills or previous military experience.

Will I Be Able To Learn To Drive?

Yes, you would have read that driving is a very big part of what we get up to in The Royal Wessex Yeomanry.  Training is provided, and if you already have a driving licence familiarisation training will be given to convert you to the necessary vehicle you will be driving.  You may also be able to add to your licence.

Will I Be Called Up?

The mere fact that you join the TA signifies that you are prepared to serve your Country.  We can compulsorily mobilise you although this is not something we take lightly.  There are also opportunities to volunteer to be mobilised as an individual and it may surprise you to know that about one-tenth of our Forces during the current period of operations have been Territorial Army or Individual Reservists.

If I Am Called Up Will My Civilian Job Be Protected?

If you are compulsorily mobilised there are procedures to follow to protect your job.  You would not expect to be able to disappear from your workplace without mention of what you were doing and expect your job to be held for you.  If you volunteer for an attachment to the Regular Army then this is generally in agreement with your civilian employer.  All TA soldiers and their employers receive information relating to their rights at the time the soldier is mobilised.  Each TA unit also has an Employer Support Officer appointed to assist further when and if required.

Do I Have To Inform My Employer That I Am Joining The TA?

As of 1 April 2004 all new entrants to the TA must inform their employer that they have become a member of the TA.  Many employers support the Reserve forces and will give additional annual holiday for you to attend your annual TA camp.

What Would I Be Expected To Do If I Joined The TA?

Depending on your unit you will be expected to train in military and specialist skills, some of which can be of use in your civilian life.  It is not all military training and you will have the opportunity to take part in other activities such as adventure training, sports, parades and social activities.

What If I Have A Civil Conviction?

This really depends on what the conviction is for; how long ago etc.  Go and ask at your local TA Centre.

What Are The Opportunities For Foreign Travel?

There will be opportunities; but this shouldn’t be your prime reason for joining.  Members of the TA have served all over the world on operational tours, exercises and adventure training.

Are There Opportunities To Serve With The Regular Army Abroad?

Yes, there will be opportunities to serve on operations and on training exercises.  Much depends on the skill(s) that you have to offer and time you have available.