What a mess of opinions ... Please all, keep in mind that the educational level received during PPL is VERY different. Only lately have I started to talk with others about it and the insights were dramatic. About 5h of my PPL (education according to JAR-FCL) was dedicated to identify, avoid and cope with IMC. I thought this to be normal, BUT it ain't. I found many never hearing anything about IMC other then "do not go" - especially chaps with no NFQ.
It is indisputable that receiving IR education is of value. With EASA part-FCL we now even have a common route to go EIR -> CB-IR. Why should one follow a special IMC/IR(R) route only applicable in the UK?
Reason One: you only fly in the UK. Ok, makes sense.
Reason Two: you have an opportunity to get cheap IMC. OK, if you have a local chap to get it, why not.
Reason Three: you take a bet EASA will have a conversion later. Hmm, I won't bet this happens during our lifetime.