Using the Squadron finder on the ACO website the nearest Squadron to my Squadrons postcode is 4.1 miles away!
You must have missed the email
For adult staff that is the exact opposite of what should be happening.
EXAMPLE
email goes to Sqn 1 which is 1.1miles from the enquirer, OC Sqn 1 thinks “■■■■■■ this I’ve got enough staff” and files the email in the trash.
3 miles down the road OC Sqn 2 is struggling to keep their head above water because all of his staff have left due to work pressures or relocated.
SOLUTION
Email goes directly to a nominated POC within the wing, they call up the enquirer ask them a few simple questions, accertain they are more than happy to travel 3 miles to Sqn 2! Invite them down to meet OC Sqn 2 and their WSO to sort out the CI interview and paperwork…
RESULT
Sqn 1 keeps going with enough staff. Sqn 2 has a slightly happier OC, more staff resource and can deliver a better cadet experience… JOB JOBBED!
Can you ever have enough staff? Well not unless you’ve got a squadron staffed by people with no families, straight forward 9-5 day jobs and no interest other than the ATC.
I’ve met enough Sqn Cdrs who think they’ve got enough staff and haven’t responded to those enquiries that I think the answer to your question must be YES. Although they’re usually the same folk who constantly moan about the high level of administrative burden imposed on them!!!