It is of enormous benefit for both you and your Reservist if you can sit down and have a talk before they leave. It will not only help ensure a smooth handover but you’ll also be able to discuss ways of keeping in touch while they’re away.
Pre-deployment training
The call-out notice will specify which Mobilisation Centre your Reservist has to report to and when. Here they’ll have various medical and dental tests before receiving their pre-deployment training. This will include:
- Administration (covering pay, kit and equipment as well as welfare and medical procedures
- Refresher training to recap on their skills
- Specific training based on the location of their mobilisation
- Specialist training regarding their specific function
This whole process can take up to four weeks or more. The Reservist is then deployed to their unit.
Joining their unit
Your Reservist employee will be attached to a Regular unit throughout their operational tour, or their entire unit will be deployed. Their duties will depend on their particular skills and the requirements of the operation.
Keeping in touch
Employers and Reservists are encouraged to keep in touch while they’re away. Reservists have access to email as well as messages sent through the British Forces Post Office. There’s also a special email system known as ‘e-blueys’. Some employers give updates to staff so that they can keep up to date with the progress of their Reservist colleague throughout their mobilisation, and gain a better understanding of the role they’re playing. Others send out company newsletters so their Reservist employee can keep up to date with what’s going on at work, this will also help with the Reservist's reintegration when they return.