wow

Sarah mentions a valid point. If your local reps are active and good then it's worthwhile in case you have disputes. You can always join when things start to get difficult (if there's a restructuring happening or something), that's what people have done where I work (local government). Most people I know are a member out of principle and in my experience the numbers are dwindling. I used to be a member of Unison for years but not anymore, couldn't see the benefit as it's quite expensive (monthly fee) for what you get out of it. But the better your local reps are the more useful it is and gives you a good feeling as you feel you are represented well. You can just wait and see and talk to your colleagues etc. before you decide.