My life has been in tatters since I was fired from my dream job as a fireman
DEAR DEIDRE: EVER since I was fired from my dream job, my life has been in tatters.
I’m completely devastated, and the reality of starting over is too much to bear.
I’m a 46-year-old man and I’ve worked as a firefighter for more than 25 years.
Growing up it was all I ever wanted to do. Becoming a firefighter was the best decision I ever made, and I loved every second of it.
I had never even considered the idea that one day I would have to do something else.
So my world was shattered when I found out that I was being dismissed.
I’ve been suffering badly with my health, and it’s taken a toll on me so I’ve had to take more sick days than usual.
I’d explained this to my boss and I thought he understood, but I was taken by surprise when I was fired for too many “unexplained absences”.
I tried to fight it, but I was told there was nothing I could do. Now I feel so lost.
Get in touch with the Dear Deidre team
Every problem gets a personal reply from one of our trained counsellors.
Fill out and submit our easy-to-use and confidential form and the Dear Deidre team will get back to you.
You can also send a private message on the DearDeidreOfficial Facebook page.
DEIDRE SAYS: I am sorry to hear that you have had to leave your dream job and I understand how distressing this must be for you.
If you feel you were treated unfairly, talk to your union rep.
It’s worth looking into whether you have a case for an unfair dismissal complaint.
Talk it through with Acas (acas.org.uk, 0300 123 1100) which gives independent advice on workplace issues.