
FDA in the Department for Work and Pensions
FDA represents DWP staff in grades HEO and above
We have an active branch that ensures members’ interests are promoted and protected – whether as a group or where one has a specific problem in the workplace. The FDA is seeing record levels of membership growth – people like you are joining.
We provide a regular weekly summary of key issues to all members of the branch and are always interested in member feedback and contributions to the agenda for negotiation with employers and developing union policy. Get in touch at dwp@fda.org.uk
We get involved in a whole range of issues affecting our members. Current top issues we are working on include:
- Hybrid Working
- Pay (inevitably!)
- Diversity and equality
- Supporting individuals involved in grievances
There is plenty of material here on the FDA website about the benefits of membership, including our FDA Learn training courses and FDA Portfolio member benefits package, but if you want to talk through the specific reasons for joining in DWP, then contact your FDA branch committee at dwp@fda.org.uk. We are are always happy to talk to new (or existing) members!
DWP committee:
David Howdon, Tim Knight, Alan Gribben, Neil Hickling, Sarah Kissack, Nick Smith
We look forward to welcoming you into membership

Matt Newman
National Officer
Matt is the FDA National Officer with responsibility for the DWP.
What the FDA can do for you

We are there when you need help at work
Whatever your workplace issue, we are here with one-to-one employment advice and representation to help resolve it.

We fight for your pay, pensions and working conditions
We campaign and negotiate with employers on behalf of our members to ensure they have the resources required both to do their jobs and have a life outside the workplace.

We support your career progression
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.
Join the FDA today
By joining the FDA, you’ll be standing alongside more than 26,000 other members who believe that public services – and the people who deliver them – matter.
Latest news
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Hybrid working “boosts productivity”, says Penman
FDA General Secretary Dave Penman has responded to report from The Telegraph claiming that civil servants in HMRC and the Land Registry have been “faking office attendance”.
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FDA at the Fabian Society and Bright Blue Tech Summit
FDA Assistant General Secretary Lauren Crowley spoke as part of ‘Tech and public services’ panel at a Tech Summit at Havas Village, London on Monday 27 April.
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FDA at TUC Black Workers’ Conference 2026
An FDA delegation attended this year’s TUC Black Workers’ Conference in Bournemouth.