And you'll be in good company since we have thousands of members! Obviously, the larger our membership, the more persuasive our voice will be. So, we're constantly seeking new members from existing and future British Airways pensioners.

As recent events have shown, we cannot be complacent. Our pension schemes may not always be secure - active members of NAPS may well be concerned about their pensions. Some people may not feel ABAP can make much difference. In fact, events have shown we make a considerable difference - remember the proposed scheme merger!

More than that, Roger Maynard, the current Chairman of the Trustees, has offered to meet with ABAP twice a year and also agreed that ABAP will again be able to meet with the Trustees and the Scheme Actuaries to question them about the valuation results due next year.

ABAP's income is derived from annual subscriptions and donations from members. The Treasurer is responsible for managing the funds ensuring a working balance between deposits and cash on hand. The Treasurer submits balance sheets for annual audit and these are presented at the AGM. ABAP does not enjoy charity status and is not VAT registered.

All Committee Members give their time freely but are reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses. Financial probity is maintained by the requirement for three signatures on all outgoing transactions.

ABAP's principal outgoings are the production of the Newsbriefs, professional advice and publicity. If a situation demanded lengthy legal action this would probably require additional funding by the membership.

ABAP pays for professional advice so that we can properly question the actions proposed by the airline. This is an expensive exercise, well beyond the financial reach of individual members. Thus, without ABAP, individuals would have only the biased information provided by British Airways Pensions.

Annual subscriptions are modest and related directly to the pension you receive; in cases of financial hardship, membership can be offered on an ex gratia basis.

ABAP members are kept up to date throughout the year via the AGM and Newsbriefs which are posted on this site. Members can opt to receive e-mail messages advising them when a Newsbrief is available. There's also a forum in which members can discuss their views and opinions.

Finally, remember that only ABAP can call the Trustees to account so the best way to protect your pension is to join the Association, maintain your membership and tell all your British Airways friends about the Association. It's their future as well as yours.