TinyTim
excellent post, mirrors my experiences. Paid my dues from day 1 with 1st employer. 8 years on I needed BALPA ...... never did get a reply to my frantic calls! They soon rang back when I cancelled the DD
Some council members go above and beyond for the good of the members and some lobbying has been beneficial.
However, as you rightly say, I have guarenteed legal cover with my home insurance policy.