RNR personnel are paid daily rates of naval pay for all periods of duty or training undertaken, including training nights that normally attract a quarter day's pay. Actual rates are slightly less than the regular equivalent. These are subject to annual review by the Armed Forces Pay Review Body and increases are generally in line with those awarded to the regular Armed Forces. As a guide, at the time of going to print (April 2003), Ratings' pay ranged from about £27 per day for new entrants to some £67 a day for Chief Petty Officers. Officers are paid nearly £47 a day as new entry Sub-Lieutenants to £154 a day as a Captain.

All RNR personnel are paid travelling expenses to attend RNR Units and other training commitments.

Providing that reservists complete their minimum training commitment satisfactorily, they are eligible to receive an annual tax-free bounty. For personnel who undertake a commitment to complete a total of 24 days annual training, the bounty payable is £330 for the first full year of service rising to £1,290 for the 5th and subsequent years.

What about uniform?

Reservists wear the same uniform as regular personnel with the exception that Officers wear a small gold "R" in the curl of their rank insignia and Ratings wear RNR on the shoulder tabs (epaulette) appropriate to their rate. Ratings' uniforms are issued and replaced free of charge. Officers are issued with most items initially and awarded a cash grant to purchase a No1 (best) uniform; thereafter, Officers are paid Uniform Upkeep Allowance.

What about discipline?

Although you will be subject to the Naval Discipline Act 2000 when undertaking Naval Duties and training, today's fighting services rely more on self-discipline than the harsh, uncompromising methods of the distant past. A well-ordered, uniformed hierarchy can, in fact, provide for a more relaxed environment than that encountered in many civilian organisations where such divisions exist behind "invisible glass ceilings and doors". Training can be tough and demanding but the decision on whether to continue or give up is yours - and yours alone!