My job is at risk.
Not an uncommon phrase these days.
The project I work for has been subject to a cost saving strategic review, which initially made some financial sense; the review included new ideas for a bright new future. Then came an economic recession, a change of Government and Spending Cuts the like of which have never been experienced before. The bright new future has not materialized; it’s looking fairly dim from my current angle. Everything changed. The only certainty is that three projects, sister projects to mine will go.
In the next few weeks our funders will have budget meetings and decisions made and the true extend of the loss of funding and the lack of bright new future will become apparent. Even then, based on past experiences, I expect that it will be a while before my future is really clear.
What is clear is that in the next few months we will ‘wind down’ three projects. Attempt to find alternative and appropriate support for service users. Workers will lose their jobs. My project limps on, awaiting a decision, the decision as the whether we exist next year or not.
I have a contract until January. I am the main bread winner. I have a mortgage all that stuff.
The people you work with are a funny bunch, you spend so much time together, you very much learn to live with each other and get along. It’s a very companionable relationship. Sometimes you make great friendships, jobs used to provide stability, a certainty. Not anymore.
I work in the voluntary sector funding issues; loss of funding is the very nature of the sector. You have to adapt.
Ultimately, loss of funding equals loss of service. The vulnerable and poor lose projects they need. It’s happening right across the city I live in and across other cities. I’ll mange, somehow, how will they?
Difficult times. I have no answer, at the moment I will sit it out and see what happens. What is certain is there is so much uncertainty everywhere; I might as well stay where I am. Seeing other people go over the next few months, living with the uncertainty and waiting for decisions from funders is going to be tough. I can only push on and eat biscuits.
Ohh – I am so sorry. The Cuts are horrid – and Im fed up of the word “necessary” that usually precedes them. Fingers crossed for you. X
Awww Gemma – hugs to you.
I was made redundant 4 years ago when we first starting heading into the recession.
I really hope that it all works out for you and the worst doesn’t happen xx
How worrying for you. It’s such a shame that the most worthy stuff suffers first… Will keep everything crossed for you too. emma x
Scary Times. I’m sure it’ll all work out for you in the end but I hope there is no nail biting involved.
Sorry to hear about this Gemma. Hope you have enough biscuits? 😉
xx
So many of the cuts going on are not saving any money in the long run. I’m going on the March for the Alternative (against the cuts in public and voluntary sector) on 26th march in London. Taking both babies with me… could be interesting?! https://marchforthealternative.org.uk/
So sorry to hear that. It’s hard when you’re looking across the desk and wondering him or me? Hope it’s not you. x
Your strategy is right. Eat biscuits.
I really hope you don’t lose your job and I understand that it’s not just the job but also the loss of the project which is tragic for the people you are helping. I just want to say that it took me until well into my 40s to realise (and believe) that every closing is an opportunity for a new opening. I hope the future brings you good surprises – Rachel
Oh hun, it’s so stressful, you feel like your every move is being watched. Hope it works out ok xx
Really sorry to hear about your situation.
I really hope you don’t lose your job and I understand that it’s not just the job but also the loss of the project which is tragic for the people you help. I just want to say that it took me until well into my 40s to realise (and believe) that every closing is an opportunity for a new opening. I hope the future brings you good surprises – Rachel
thanks for all the lovely replies, they have made a grim day much better.
(((Gemma))) Thinking of you, these are shit times. I just try and always hold ontot he thought that what is menat to be, will be and that sometimes scary stuff turns out to be a real blessing. I pray you will be blessed. Mich x
Its such a shame. It is so lovely that this post is not about you though and about everyone it will effect. Compassion thats what you have in tons lovely lady
xxx
It’s a sad state of affairs isn’t it, but the things you can rely on are your skills and your drive will keep you moving in the right direction
An awful situation, and horribly stressful in the lead up to any decision. As a family we have been there and come out the other side much stronger – worse of financially but happier on the inside.
I hope you find a positive outcome x
It’s the uncertainty that’ll begin to grind if it isn’t already. That and the apparent inability to plan anything now. But you’re capable, educated and literate and resourceful and you know you’ll work it out. You will. But in total agreement about cutting these services. It’s a disgrace. Interested to read in the earlier comment about march for an alternative… going to look it up. Best xx
thanks once again, and yes – there is a March in Central London on 26th March organsied by the TUC, a voice against the Cuts. There is a link is in Flora’s comment. It is expected that many people from the Public Sector, Voluntary sector and Community and Faith organisations will attend.
Oh Gemma I’m so sorry 🙁 Daddy Doo finds out this Monday when his depot will close and how long he has left to work there. His stupid bosses have already notified the rest of countries depots who have already informed Doo’s workmates that they no longer have jobs. But the managment team havent told Doo or his team yet. Hence the Monday meeting. I’m so furious and frustrated so completely empathise with you and your situation. 🙁 Cuddles – but step away from the biscuits 😉 Its easy to put on the weight but harder to get off 😉 xxx
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