Well put sid,
I think wise to distinguish that we have BALPA national level and BALPA CC's at local level.
The options on this poll could have been tailored to distinguish between national level and local if I had more than 9 available. However i didn't have that luxury so I would suggest that those who perceive BALPA negatively are looking at the organisation nationally, on the converse those who have voted positively would be more influenced by their direct CC. I maybe wrong with this analysis.
BALPA national level should be taking a lead and tackling the major issues you outlined, supporting students, newly qualified and unemployed despite their subs ranging from £0-£2 per month. They may not cover your bills now Mr McAuslan, but they will in the future, but only if you act now.
P2F is almost universally despised and an effective stance on this cancer would be welcomed.
I wouldn't mind a bit of BALPA's resources being put into forward planning and investigation on what might be thrown at us in the next couple of years so it can be cauterised before its too late.
I would argue is to ensure continuity and consistency in the effectiveness at CC level throughout all CC's. The exchange of best practice and tactics as ever CC ins't as well versed and exacting as BA's, maybe Easy's could devise a new approach if advice was sought. A method where a CC can explain themselves and their course of action to their peers after a decision/agreement would help too based on what I've read so far. A secure forum on the BALPA website would allow this.
Also a transparent way of reporting alleged ineffectiveness to national level would also appease some who have voiced their negative experiences of their CC or an individual rep on here.
This is the tip of the iceberg, I would hope that a further 20 or so initiatives would be adopted as soon as possible, for there are no shortage of ideas, just will.