The Federation of Poles started in 1946, when the British Government formally withdrew recognition of the Polish Government in Exile. From that time until 1990 The Federation represented the interests of the polish immigration with respect to British authorities.

Subsequent to the transfer of the Presidential Insignia by President Richard Kaczorowski to President Lech Walesa, some responsibilities were vested in The Federation. The Federation was recognised by both Polish and British governments, as well as other polish organisations world-wide, as the organisation representing the polish ethnic minority in Great Britain.

The Federeation exists not only to both promote and defend the interests of the polish ethnic minority in Great Britain, but also to promote polish history, culture and traditions among the British people.

Detailed information is contained in the Federation's Statutes.