Why Fast Streamers should join

Fast Stream members get first six months of free FDA membership.

Fast Streamers get the first six months membership for free

The FDA is the only trade union recognised by the Cabinet Office to represent Fast Stream civil servants. We welcome individuals from all Fast Stream schemes ­– from generalist to diplomatic service, finance to commercial, human resources to project delivery.

All Fast Stream members are offered the first six months of their FDA membership for free, with reduced subscription rates during their time on the programme.

If you would like to find out more about the work of the FDA’s Fast Stream section, or if you are an FDA member with an issue or concern you would like to raise with your local reps, please drop us a line at faststream@fda.org.uk.

Benefits of joining

What we’ve achieved

  • In 2023, we won pay rises of up to 22.5% for Fast Streamers – the biggest uplift in the scheme’s history.
  • In 2025, we built upon that historic two-year pay deal with a further 6.41% increase in Fast Stream second year pay.
  • In 2022, our lobbying played a role in reversing the government’s decision to suspend the Fast Stream.
  • The FDA secured many positive changes to terms and conditions, including faster accrual of annual leave and improved family-friendly policies.
  • We also won Fast Stream civil servants the right to ballot in 2019, meaning for the first time ever, you can vote on pay deals.

“A victory for all our members who voted for industrial action”

Find out more >

We lobby on your behalf and speak up for you

Public servants can’t always speak up for themselves, so we promote the positive work you do and combat falsehoods – wherever they come from.

We recognise Fast Stream civil servants aren’t always confident speaking out when they have a problem, but the Fast Stream Section is always happy to make the case on behalf of its members. 

In 2022, our lobbying played a role in reversing the government’s decision to suspend the Fast Stream.

Then Cabinet Office Minister Georgia Gould addresses FDA delegates.
Then Cabinet Office Minister Georgia Gould addresses FDA delegates. Credit: Graham Martin

Helen

Fast Stream Member

The FDA’s help was essential in overturning my Must Improve rating after a bad posting. Without the support and encouragement of the union I wouldn’t have felt able to challenge it.

Hasan

Fast Stream Member

The FDA has been invaluable in ensuring that I received the reasonable adjustments I need to do the job.

Memberships

How much do I pay?

Fast Stream and equivalent development schemes

Period Monthly cost
First six monthsFree
After six months£12
Sep 25, 2025

Member discounts

Find out more >

HELP

FAQs

How much does membership cost?

The first six months of your membership as a Fast Streamer is free. After that, the membership costs £12 per month.

Is membership an annual or monthly subscription?

We collect subscriptions on a monthly basis.

I’m in need of union support, where do I go?

In need of urgent support?

Login to your members’ area to find the contact details of your local rep.

Problems logging in? Call us on 020 7401 5555

Got a question about the membership?

Get in touch with our Membership Secretary at membership@fda.org.uk.

Fast Streamers get the first six months for free