How to keep going when it wasn't your fault...

[Povertytrapped]

A couple of years ago I had to leave a charity, and work I loved, because I whistle-blew on a bullying boss and underhand financial practices. I thought I was doing the right thing (and colleagues agreed with me) but predictably the bullying boss managed to charm her way out of the accusations and nothing was done - they all closed ranks and an "investigation" was nothing of the sort and spoke to no one except the boss.

I REALLY miss working for this organisation and its work, I know I can't go back (I'm sure I'm written off as a trouble-maker and they wouldn't have me anyway) but I am struggling - its work is very high profile atm which isn't helping.

Has anyone got any tips/techniques for how to get past this before it becomes an obsession, I feel like I'm getting mired in it all over again...and it caused me enough heartache and stress the first time. I know I shouldn't care this much about work, but I do, and I can't imagine how I can be any different and still be good at what I do?

TIA.

Are you working anywhere now. If so, take more interest, if not get another job. I’m sure your feelings are much like someone who has been dumped … are your ex colleagues still friends or in touch?

I worked in charities for several years, very many are inefficient and time and money wasting. No one involved wants this brought to light.

perhaps yours was like this, social and great fun, but did it actually achieve its stated aims and objectives? Was its funding mostly government or lottery, or were you raising money from individuals.

perhaps you could work for a similar charity to the one you already worked for, or get a job as a funder, checking out applications to make sure they are sound.

all the best.

I had a very similar experience in a charity. Our whole team raised a grievance against our manager and it was a horrific experience. All 5 of us left in the end and he stayed. Many of our replacements left with 6 months as well. I went on to another charity, better pay, better role and more prospects and this has really helped me cope with the feeling of injustice of all that went on. I suppose they tried to knock me down but they did not succeed. I think you have to let it go and move on. But sometimes I still would like to stamp my feet and scream it was unfair!!!

Thanks @mumonthehill and @Tumbler2121 - it's sad that these problems are so common in the sector, but comforting to me that you've both had similar experiences, helps me feel a lot better. It is just the injustice as you say - my line of work is all about integrity (I'm freelance) and to have that called into question when it's other people who are being manipulative, and in one case downright fraudulent, was very hard. Made worse by the fact that the work they do (or at least the work of some of the staff) is very important...and interesting.

Ho hum, onwards and upwards, I have got new clients and I'm enjoying working with them, just need to leave this other one behind as you say...thanks again.