1. We are there for you when you need help at work
"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." Member, CPS HQ
“The FDA’s help was essential in successfully challenging bullying behaviour.” Raj, Senior Crown Prosecutor
“Thank goodness for the FDA. Their support has saved my career and enabled me to carry on working.” Sarah, Crown Advocate who turned to the FDA when recovering from illness
The FDA offers workplace representation and legal advice for members in trouble. Whatever your workplace issue, we are here advise and act on your behalf, and make sure that it gets resolved.
2. We fight and win for you
In 2019, we won CPS prosecutors, professionals and senior managers pay rises of up to 8% to be paid over two years.
The FDA negotiated the 2017 Weekend Court Coverage Scheme, which saw huge increases to weekend rates — in some cases doubling payments for members.
We also won additional money for members working on Extended Court Pilots.
Through legal action we secured over £200,000 in holiday pay entitlements for CPSD members.
We negotiate collectively to improve all our members’ pay, pensions and conditions.
3. We speak up for you
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.
4. We support your professional development
We’ve helped more than 3,700 people develop their careers though our FDA Learn professional development courses.
Partnered with Dods, we host Women into Leadership and BAME into Leadership conferences, as well as Unlocking the SCS workshops. Our members receive significant discounts on tickets to these events.
We’ve helped more than 3,700 people develop their careers though our FDA Learn professional development courses. Partnered with Dods, we host Women into Leadership and BAME into Leadership conferences, as well as Unlocking the SCS workshops. Our members receive significant discounts on tickets to these events.
5. We make the CPS a better place to work
FDA workplace representatives designed and lobbied for the CPS Managing Work-Related Stress Policy.
The FDA led the push for Smarter Working to give members greater flexibility in how they work. We also successfully argued for an employee-focussed and non-mandatory career movement model.
We jointly authored the CPS Respect policy and led on the pioneering Stress Risk Assessment policy to protect our members’ mental health.
We also lead on lawyers’ professional issues. We have FDA reps on the Law Society and Bar Council who work with and influence these professional bodies, campaigning with them on the issues that matter to our members.
Duncan Woodhead
National Officer
Duncan is the FDA National Officer responsible for the Crown Prosecution Service.