Crab,
Genuine question, how does RAF SAR training compare to the RN, specifically 771 NAS? Surely they are covering the same/similar tasking as you, same/similar equipment, and they certainly feature often in our GAPAN awards nominations.
Historically, RN tasking would include Planeguard & SAR for carrier ops which, whilst often a secondary tasking for an ASW squadron, would be as advanced and professional as could be achieved. With intense carrier ops around the world and Ship's Flight covering each and every FW launch and recovery, both day and night, ASW squadrons backing up that task plus covering any SAR task within the operating region there was a wealth of knowledge and ability. Indeed, auto hover was developed back in the 60s for ASW and came to a high level of maturity with the Sea King in (front line service) 1970, and incorporated for the first time a 10% authority hover trim for the rear crew when winching with auto hover.
Techniques and equipment have advanced dramatically in the ensuing years but it still remains an important element of the RN background in SAR.
Comparing what the UK CAA allows for Civ SAR and 'other countries', there should be no justifiable reason to deny 24 hour/all weather SAR by Civ operators in the UK. Australia has managed for many years to provide this service, often Single Pilot with qualified crewman left seat, on NVG, over water, overland, day/night, (winching too) all with "civilian" operators. I include the State Police Air Wings, who are often the primary responders especially on the East Coast states. They all have their own training and crew progression well established, with relatively few being ex Mil: these days they have their own 'Corporate knowledge' and little reliance on getting the military to do it for them. In fact the military seldom get called for civil SAR, and they don't have a primary tasking nor the equipment to cover it.