LCpl Jameelia Cooper is a key member of the Corps Engagement Team, a group of soldiers who tour the UK talking to people about what we do. They travel to shows, schools and national events, keeping the Corps in the public eye. Jameelia, originally from East London, joined the R SIGNALS in 2018 and has been serving with the CET for 2 years. When the team are out on the road, they often get asked recurring questions and we’ve put some of these to LCpl Cooper to answer:
Why did you join the Royal Signals and why did you select your specific trade?
At first, I wanted to just join the reserves and the Royal Signals was my nearest unit, but after two years I loved it so much that I decided to transfer to the regulars. I chose to specialise as a Network Engineer because it was a hands-on job which enabled me to learn different communication systems and gain various qualifications.
What is your day-to-day life like in the Army?
Every day can be different in the army. Sometimes you have very busy periods deployed on exercise or operations when you are working extremely long hours in a high-pressure environment. At other times, you may be back in barracks working a normal 8:30am- 4:30 pm shift, with time off to play sports or to go adventure training. Leave can be in bigger blocks than you’re used to in the civilian world, which can give you time to travel.
Can you have a family in the army?
Yes, you can! If you are married or a single parent the Army will provide you and your immediate family with a house, with subsided costs. Most single people tend to live in Single Living Accommodation (SLA), an accommodation block on camp but some, usually more senior, may choose to live in their own house. The Army realises that partners often have their own careers and their family may have put down roots, so some soldiers and officers live elsewhere and weekly commute to work.
Are you able to go home regularly in the army?
Yes! As long as you are not deployed on exercise, operations or another duty, you can go home as often as you like.
What countries have you visited?
I took part in UK Operations for 5 years, but I have also been to Belgium, France and Norway.
Have you been on tour?
Not yet, although I would like to deploy on an overseas operation in the future.
What is basic/Phase 1 training like?
It is a fast-paced, educating experience which helps you to build mental robustness. You learn to be part of a team, you learn dedication and it pushes you to achieve. Above all, you make friends for life.
Do you have to be fit to join the army?
Not necessarily! However, it helps. Phase 1 training will condition you and your fitness will improve throughout the weeks of training. But if you are fit prior to training it will make your experience a lot easier and possibly make it easier for you to learn more.
Are the Royal Signals involved in combat?
As communications, IT and cyber specialists, we are not the first line of defence but we do provide the vital links between different combat organisations. As such, Royal Signals can be attached to forward troops. Also, Signallers can join specialist units that operate with the high-readiness Brigade and even special forces.
Do Royal Signals soldiers use rifles/weapons?
Yes! Every soldier in the British Army is trained on various weapon systems and in Phase 1 Training, we’re all taught the same syllabus so that we can protect ourselves if necessary.
What is the age range to join the Army?
15 years and 7 months – 35 years.
What is the pay like in the army?
During basic training, every recruit is paid the same, but when you move on to your unit, your pay goes up and varies depending on your Corps or Regiment. The more specialised your role and the more qualified you are, the higher your wage will be, but as a rule it increases each year by increments. Also, when you deploy you will be paid more, and if you are promoted. All pay is decided by a public body and published on www.gov.uk but the starting salary for a soldier after training in 2023 is £23,496.
