The FDA represent managers and professionals in the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
We are the only trade union recognised by the department to represent lawyers – however we represent all CPS staff in grades B2 and above.
All CPS legal trainees are offered their first six months of FDA membership for free, and then subsidised rates while on the scheme.
Public servants can’t always speak up for themselves, so we promote the positive work you do. The FDA defends CPS prosecutors in the media and always stands up for the integrity and professionalism of CPS staff.
Duncan Woodhead
National Officer
Duncan is the FDA’s National Officer for the CPS.
duncan@fda.org.uk
Member
CPS HQ
Having worked in prosecutions for over 15 years, I was of the opinion that I would never need the help of the FDA. My view was I work hard and follow the rules so I would never get into any difficulties. I was so wrong; in 2021, I was bullied and harassed, and facing a warning for poor performance. The FDA was the only voice I had as HR did not assist me. The FDA fought my corner, making direct representations to parts of the business I could not access. In the end, they were able to make sure I was not served with a warning and consequently no future references would be damaged. I would never be without the FDA in any future employment.
Raj
Senior Crown Prosecutor
The FDA’s help was essential in successfully challenging bullying behaviour.
Sarah
Crown Advocate
Thank goodness for the FDA. Their support has saved my career and enabled me to carry on working.
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Through our specialised masterclasses, conferences and online training, FDA Learn addresses a wide range of skills to help you progress in your career and maximise your potential.
FDA report
The FDA’s latest report calls for consistent direction of policy and additional resourcing of the justice system, in order to increase prosecutions of serious sexual offences.
The report was launched in Parliament to with widespread support from advocacy groups, charities, think tanks, and professional bodies.
Read more >
The FDA is the only trade union recognised by the CPS to represent Legal Trainees – whether trainee lawyers or pupil barristers. All Legal Trainee members are offered the first six months of their FDA membership for free, with reduced subscription rates during their time on the programme.
Tom Nathan speaks to Crown Prosecution Service Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson about CPS’s handling of riots, the importance of impartiality and his plan to help reduce unmanageable prosecutor caseloads.
Tom Nathan on the FDA’s report into the financial and administrative challenges present in the justice system, its advice for the new government on increasing prosecutions of Rape and Serious Sexual Offences, and next steps to ensure the union’s message is heard.
The FDA has welcomed that the CPS will be receiving additional resources. The announcement follows the recent publication of the FDA’s report examining the CPS’s role in increasing RASSO prosecutions.
