Interesting to hear how things work in the North Sea, it seems thay are a little different here. As far as an instrument rating goes there are some excellent IFR schools in Canada where a fellow can get an IFR ticket on his/her own nickel and then when you do your PPC on type you have to do the instrument portion with it anyway. Most schools combine simulator and light airplane time to keep the costs down and then finish a fellow up on a R-22 or similar type. I don't think I've heard of guys getting into long term bonding situations unless they are fresh 100 CPL pilots and the company has paid for the IFR rating, which is very rare. Most companies tell guys to get an IFR ticket and then come back with resume in hand. I personally got my tickets in the CAF but have worked with many civil trained pilots in the last few years and have foung most to be quite good. I don't think anyone needs to sell his soul for a job even if he is a newbie. Let's face it though if you are lucky enough to score an IFR job in Canada with very low time, why would you quit in less than 2 years anyway. Most companies are straight when they hire you and you are getting great experience! Leave if you must down the road with no hard feelings!!
Sounds like things are different in our little world across the pond. Best of luck and keep the the sunny side up!!!!