Welcome to BFAWU. Supporting workers for over 150 years.
We welcome you to the BFAWU website.
Our Union is the only independent Trade Union operating within the food industry and we’ve been representing working people since 1847. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved over the years and we continue to lead the way in terms of fighting for a better deal for our members.
Join Us
Education & Training
The BFAWU has a long tradition of training its representatives and promoting education generally throughout the industries which it is involved with.
Read moreFinancial Services
The BFAWU recognises the importance of personal finances in every aspect of life, whether saving for the future, planning for the worst, or simply surviving day to day.
Read moreIn the workplace, joining the union is recommended, working to support each other and be actively involved helps change happen; together is strength.
-Dave
I wanted to have a voice, I am the daughter and sister of miners and I knew what being in the union meant to them.
-Ruth
News
Don’t let Easter spending catch you by surprise
April 2025 PayPlan Blog #2 Easter may be a short holiday for some and not thought about by many, but it can lead to purchases that might surprise your...
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The psychological impact of being in debt and tips to cope
April 2025 PayPlan Blog Being in debt can feel like an overwhelming weight on your shoulders, impacting not just your finances but also your mental and emotional wellbeing. We...
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Tips for teaching children about money: building the foundation for financial success
March 2025 PayPlan Blog #2 Helping children learn about money is one of the most valuable life skills you can give them. Understanding how to manage money from an...
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£6bn Cuts, Unsafe Workplaces, and a Mental Health Crisis: Why Government Policy is Failing Disabled Workers
A blog from our National President Ian Hodson The UK government’s announcement of £6 billion in welfare cuts to push disabled people back into work is being framed as...
Read moreCelebrating Women in the BFAWU
Patrycja Grabowska Hi, my name is Patrycja Grabowska and I have been a member of the BFAWU for several years and a combined Shop Steward and Health and Safety...
Read moreOrganising
Campaigns
The BFAWU has a long and proud history of standing up for workers within the food industry. Our campaigns have covered issues ranging from the health and safety of workers, to pay and conditions, and even on the quality of food.
Check out our latest campaigns here.
Health, Safety and Environment
Health & Safety
If you have concerns over health & safety issues, you will find all the information you need here to raise the issue with your employer.
Environment
Climate change is a trade union issue because workplaces burn energy, consume resources and generate waste and travel.
Mental Health
Find out about the significant difference unions can make to mental health in the workplace.
Inclusivity
BAME
All organisations and communities, including trade unions, need to continue to tackle racism and promote race equality.
LGBTQ+
As a trade union we make every effort to ensure the workplace is a safe and welcoming place for all members.
Younger members
Younger workers are less likely to know their rights or raise issues at work if there is one.