When people are leaving, the last thing on their mind is the prospect of ever wanting to re-join and because of this, many will cite all the negative aspects of the service in their own minds-eye, to inwardly justify their reasons for leaving.
Very often, in their haste to leave, people will inadvertantly close doors behind them to accelerate their departure whilst not envisaging the day that, actually, in retrospect, it maybe wasn't all bad.
This in no way criticises those that elect to leave, as their contract specifically allows this option. But, for those that want out and then change their mind, the service tends to need convincing their investment thus far will not be wasted a second time, particularly when manning is at an optimal level.
For all its faults, the service hasn't changed in its requirements, the individual has changed their requirements.
The Corps, not so long ago, dictated the shortage category branch in which a trained rank would be permitted to rejoin. I processed guys who were previously SFSG, aspiring to become UKSF upon re-entry, and their option? Join as a K3 for two years. (Chef is no longer an RM TQ/SQ).
My bright idea? Every trained rank should automatically be transfered seamlessly into the RMR with a twelve month option to be discharged and sever all ties. All they need do is deliberately opt out, with no chance of subsequent re-entry.
Doubtless things will go full circle, but for now it's RMR, with the FTRS option.