1

As it stands I have to press the volume up button twice and then the volume down button twice BEFORE the call recording will commence.

I also have to do this while the call is active (Once I've answered the call).

Thos long and fiddly process and it means that I will miss the first second or 2 of the call.

Can this he shortened or the call recording started automatically,

2

Yes, you can.
During the call you can tap the in-call button to start recording manually.
If you need the "auto record calls" feature you should upgrade to the pro version.