FSB membership - worth doing?

[Wing Commander]

Hi all,

I run a small business, but in the process of setting up a few other little separate businesses, all stand alone. I am thinking that FSB membership may be useful for their phoneline support and library of employment documentation etc. Also might use their banking facilities too.

Anyone here a member? Worth the money? Used them in anger for any support if HMRC or legal issues arise?

Basically just after any anecdotes, good or bad

Thanks

[Pot Bellied Fool]

It's been worth it to me. I've never needed any of the value added bits & pieces and you can often get the same deal through negotiating direct with a bank for cards etc.

Similarly, I'd sooner use trusted, local outfits for employment matters so I've made no use of all the stuff they trumpet about! But what I have done is become active at a local level.

There's meetings every couple of months which a surprisingly low number of members go to. But I've found them to be great networking opportunities and indeed, met one client who's turned into a major partnership.

I've also volunteered to give the evening's talk several times - it's a free chance to do a presentation to local businesses.. What's not to like!

[CIS121]

I've used it for legal advice. It's so cheap it's a non brainer to me.

[ClassicMercs]

We are members solely for the legal expenses cover. With 70 employees it pays for itself, although you do sometimes feel as though you spend you time on the issues with some very junior legal trainees. Still covers you though - for pennies.

[imagineifyeswill]

Ive been a member for 5 years but havent really used many of the benefits, would avoid the banking as its the Cooperative Bank, certainly havent heard anything about them changing that.