Why join the FDA
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.
Who we represent
FDA membership is available to staff in all government departments, agencies and arms-length bodies who are either:
- Grades HEO (or equivalent) and above;
- On the Civil Service Fast Stream scheme, or equivalent training schemes; or
- Working for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) at any grade.
We have members from across the public sector, and across the country. Whether you work in policy or operations, Leeds or Belfast, HR or finance, the House of Commons or the Ministry of Justice, you can become part of the FDA.
FDA in Wales
The FDA represents civil servants and senior professionals working for the devolved administration, Welsh Government sponsored bodies and UK government departments.
FDA in Scotland
The union represents civil servants and senior professionals working for the devolved administration, Scottish Government-sponsored bodies and UK-wide departments based here.
Fast Stream
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.
FDA in Northern Ireland
The FDA provides workplace representation, legal assistance, career development and many other benefits to members working in Northern Ireland.
FDA Overseas
The FDA provides workplace representation, legal assistance and many other benefits to members in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), its associated agencies and public bodies.
Associate membership
FDA offer associate membership to those retiring from or leaving the civil service.
What does the FDA stand for?
Impartiality
Equality
A strong,
pragmatic voice
Independent and
member-led
Member discounts
As soon as you become a member of the FDA, you are automatically eligible to access FDA Portfolio. The average FDA member could save £692.04 per year by using a handful of benefits available.
Advice & support
What is a union?
A trade union is a group of employees who come together to protect their working conditions and advocate for change.
The union’s work is carried out by full-time staff and local representatives who volunteer their time. They provide members with personalised advice, advocacy, and practical support to resolve workplace issues.
Unions also negotiate on behalf of members through collective bargaining to secure agreements on pay, working hours, benefits, and other employment terms to safeguard and improve conditions for all.
The FDA believes that public services should represent the people they serve. We are dedicated to promoting equality for all and to fighting all forms of discrimination, bullying, harassment and victimisation.
Memberships
How much do I pay?
Grade 7 and above
| Annual basic salary | Monthly cost |
| Up to £15,500 | £6.50 |
| £15,501 to £33,500 | £13.35 |
| £33,501 to £47,000 | £20.00 |
| £47,001 to £70,500 | £28.50 |
| £70,501 to £88,000 | £30.85 |
| More than £88,001 | £33.75 |
HEO, SEO and equivalent
| Hours per week | Monthly cost |
| Up to and including 24 | £8.00 |
| More than 24 | £16.50 |
Fast Stream and equivalent development schemes
| Period | Monthly cost |
| First six months | Free |
| After six months | £12 |
Associate membership
| Hours per week | Monthly cost |
| N/A | £3.99 |
HELP
FAQs
We understand that workplace issues can’t wait. As an FDA member, you have direct access to confidential, professional advice from our UK-wide network of local reps and National Officers. They can provide personalised guidance, advocacy, and representation on issues like bullying, harassment, redundancy, disciplinary matters, discrimination, and more.
If you need urgent support, log in to the members’ portal to find the contact details of your local rep. They will respond promptly and help you take the next steps.
FDA membership is billed monthly, based on your salary and grade. Fast Stream members receive the first 6 months of their membership free.
Latest news
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FDA response to the Minister for Education’s written ministerial statement
FDA National Officer for Northern Ireland comments on the written ministerial statement made by Minister for Education Paul Givan this afternoon.
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Penman re-elected
Earlier this month, it was confirmed that Dave Penman had been re-elected as General Secretary of the FDA.
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FDA signs partnership agreement with Transport for Wales
The FDA and other trade unions have signed a partnership agreement with Transport for Wales.
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.