It is fair to say that BALPA is what you make it. It is a "Company" based organisation with National coverage. Your subs are to pay for the skills and facilities that we lack as pilots (or don't have time to excercise) which are provided by paid union representatives and third parties. Maybe those that moan are not contributing enough (effort) and/or have unrealistic expectations. Personally speaking, BALPA has been superb value for money.