I think one of the problems in this thread is the vast differences between Mil vs Civil Flying in the UK, in terms of training and regulation.
If you are a pure Civ pilot, flying HEMS perhaps,
The 2 Pilot Minima are
500' cloudbase - VFR minima applicable to airspace,
499-400' cloudbase 1000m
399-300 : 3000m
(800m for short periods)
(No exemption from 500' separation from Persons,Property etc)
...Then to see helicopter such as the dauphin would seem a large excursion from what you are told to do. In fact, on reporting an event such as this one, could result in an investigation from the employer and CAA possibly resulting in suspension. (The flight recorder would have reported you anyway)
For a Military pilot, much lower minima and training for such applies, quite rightly so. Excursions from the minima are reported & investigation is classified as a 'non event' as in this case, apparently.
Quite a difference, depending on what sort of uniform you are wearing.