Think Of Number One!

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25 November 2015

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As we approach the end of this awful process, I am reminded of just what we have been through.  Do whatever it takes to protect you and your family. Don't worry about others, as they disregarded you.   Do what you have too, to make your life better and rid yourself of the worst people in society.  Those who put you where you are today!

Darren Vranjes 25/11/15

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Reflections - 8 December 2017

It has been a long time since April 2015, when I was taken out of work because of the behaviour of my boss. At the time I wrote this entry, it had been seven months and I was approaching the end of a process, to try and bring Veronica Raymond to book, for her bullying, harassment, homophobia and sociopathic behaviour. It had been a long road; I had suffered terribly but so to had others. I was lucky, having been signed off sick, other colleagues were still working for this woman, agonizing every single day; at least I was away from her.

This is the first time, I have reread any of these entries from that traumatic period; it can be difficult, putting oneself back in the shoes I was wearing at the time. Equally it is hard recalling events but surprising, how quickly these memories come flooding back. Even from this short entry, I am able to discover much about what was happening at the time, Reading between the lines, I do sound very bitter don't I? I had become extremely cynical about people, their motives and nature; I was only thinking about myself, as it should be after such awful times.

When I look back to November 2015, a few months after mine and Darrell's wedding and eight weeks before we left for Spain, I am struck by my ability to keep fighting. Many people in my position, working for Oxfam and other organisations, would have given up a long time ago. There were many times I wanted to walk away from this disciplinary process, but kept on going, because I believed in justice. As I know now, it was a thankless task. Veronica Raymond was never held accountable for her actions and she still remains in situ.

Today, approaching 2018, I remain angry about my treatment, also about the abuses of others. The statement above is as true today, as it was then. I don't take any nonsense from anyone anymore, avoid the worst elements and am well aware of the danger signs to look out for. Oxfam are indeed a dreadful group, but all of those individuals I had contact with during my final months there, taught me much about people. I am able to survive today, because I observed the worst characters I have ever met. Their characteristics, lies, cover ups and manipulation instilled within me a sense of knowing; understanding just how bad others can be!

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