Firestorm
That is a shame that that is your experience of Balpa. Mine is very different. Our company has always been well supported by hard working, dedicated Company Council's that work with the support of Balpa. They have always believed in working with the company management to negotiate and resolve issues either facing the company or its employees. They have negotiated pay rises well in excess of other groups within the company (due to their lack of representation), which means that my membership is now paying for itself and more (don't forget the tax relief).
There are people out there who have had bad experiences in the past, all you have to do is speak to some ex Dan Air bods, who were shafted by Balpa, but this was a long time ago and happened when Balpa was more more supportive of BA pilots (this is no longer the case).
Good luck to you all (if its what you want).