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Pinch Point Trades (RAF)

I have heard bits and pieces about "Pinch Point Trades" and from my understanding, they're trades where the recruitment process is a little bit faster, etc.

Most of the information I can find about them seems to be aimed at servicemen/women who understand most of the Jargon.

Quite simply, can anybody tell me whether or not RAF Medic is a pinch point trade, and if so, what does this mean for me (sent off my online application 2 days ago and waiting to hear from MOD processing/AFCO)?
Reply 1
Original post by rhysowen
I have heard bits and pieces about "Pinch Point Trades" and from my understanding, they're trades where the recruitment process is a little bit faster, etc.

Most of the information I can find about them seems to be aimed at servicemen/women who understand most of the Jargon.

Quite simply, can anybody tell me whether or not RAF Medic is a pinch point trade, and if so, what does this mean for me (sent off my online application 2 days ago and waiting to hear from MOD processing/AFCO)?


I'm no expert on current Manning matters Rhys, but I did a bit of googling for you and dug up this excerpt from the Armed Forces Pay Review report 2015:

The high operational tempo continued to make the management of Operational Pinch Points (OPPs) a priority. At the last quarter of 2013-14 there were 43 different OPPs across the Services. This was an increase over the previous year when 38 trades were designated as OPPs. The Services’ focus remained on incentivising personnel to join and remain within pinch point trades.

Note: An Operational Pinch Point is a branch specialisation or area of expertise where the shortfall in trained strength is such that it has a potentially detrimental impact on operational effectiveness

I can't immediately see what the current OPP trades are, but Medic was on the list a few years ago. I'm also not sure what the recruit incentives mentioned would be, although a financial sweetener may well be available. If the Careers Office don't know what the OPPs are, then they should - try them for the most up to date advice,
Original post by Ikaruss


I can't immediately see what the current OPP trades are, but Medic was on the list a few years ago. I'm also not sure what the recruit incentives mentioned would be, although a financial sweetener may well be available. If the Careers Office don't know what the OPPs are, then they should - try them for the most up to date advice,


As I recall, the two pinch point trades in the RAF were Gen Tech M & ICT Tech, both of which had a Golden Hello bonus (ICT Tech was £2k, I can't remember what Gen Tech M was)
Original post by rhysowen
I have heard bits and pieces about "Pinch Point Trades" and from my understanding, they're trades where the recruitment process is a little bit faster, etc.

Most of the information I can find about them seems to be aimed at servicemen/women who understand most of the Jargon.

Quite simply, can anybody tell me whether or not RAF Medic is a pinch point trade, and if so, what does this mean for me (sent off my online application 2 days ago and waiting to hear from MOD processing/AFCO)?


Rhys,

There are pinch point trades that recruiters are to push through applications for, I'm unsure whether Medic is one of those currently - though most trades in the RAF are undermanned. I will try to find out for you tomorrow.

AT
Reply 4
Original post by AlphaTango
Rhys,

There are pinch point trades that recruiters are to push through applications for, I'm unsure whether Medic is one of those currently - though most trades in the RAF are undermanned. I will try to find out for you tomorrow.

AT


Much appreciated AT. I'm hoping to get through as quickly as possible. I think my AFCO is pretty quiet and I interview & test pretty well.
Original post by rhysowen
Much appreciated AT. I'm hoping to get through as quickly as possible. I think my AFCO is pretty quiet and I interview & test pretty well.


Apologies for the delay Rhys, looking at the stats it seems RAF Medic is one of the most undermanned trades so may be deemed a pinch point trade.

I don't work in Careers though so i couldn't tell you for sure that information is translated to AFCO's.

Good luck, AT.
(edited 8 years ago)
Reply 6
Rhys, if RAF Medic is undermanned and in the category of a 'Pinch Point' trade, then you should be asking yourself, the AFCO, and preferably serving RAF medics, why that is the case. There'll be a reason, and you should find out what that reason is before you commit to the trade.

Yes, they may well 'incentivise' you by giving you a Golden Hello, but the shine will quickly wear off if you end up thoroughly miserable with low morale, a few years down the road.

Always remember, employment is a two way process. You have to fit the job and the job has to fit you.

Good luck mate.

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