What to do if you get sacked!

[troubled]

Seriously, I got sacked last year for something that I absolutely did not do. I'm currently waiting for the Employment Tribunal's decision, but in the meantime, I have not been able to get a job - of any description.
For a bit of background, I was always rewarded for being a high performing employee, I had never had any disciplinary issues before I got sacked and was highly respected by peers and managers. I was earning approx �30k, and redundancy was on the cards in my peer group.
I'd worked for this company for over 10 years, and couldn't believe what they did to me.
Has anyone ever been in this situation? I've managed to keep the debtors away so far, but am now looking at my home being repossessed. Any advice whatsoever will be gratefully received. ( I know that there is a section about money/careers etc but no-one seems to post there!)

[Hellyon]

Hi troubled - you have my every sympathy, as I read your post it sounded very familiar. I had a management job with a new company I gave it my all, negotiated many favourable discounts new buiness etc, unfortunately the comapny was handed to son to run who was useless, the company started losing money hand over fist. I took a rep to lunch after negotiating a deal that saved several thousand ponds and charged it to the company account as I had done many times before - lunch was 2 sandwiches at total cost of �5 - I was sacked for unauthorised spending. I was devastated but I was paid money owing me. Several other managers were sacked over similar minor 'offences' One week later the liquidators were called in and the rest of the staff lost their jobs. My sacking was a ploy to avoid redundancy payments!!!
My advice re jobhunting. Why not tell the truth but also tell them 'you absolutely did not do what you are accused of' tell them that to prove it you will do the job at 25% less than salary offered, when you are cleared they can take you on at full salary if not then they can get rid of you. They have nothing to lose, all your skill and experience at less than the market rate until you are cleared and they're not stuck with you if you're not. Don't go for big astablished companies go for one's that are smaller and more personal where you get to deal with the owner rather than just an employed manager.
You'd be surprised - I've taken a chance on people who I just have a good feeling about....and I've never been let down yet.

[Hellyon]

Several thousand pounds even!

By the way I have 3 different CV's tailored to emphasise different skills.

[Hellyon]

I agree with Dot - I wouldn't even put the fact you were sacked on your CV - and don't mention it at interview unless they ask you specifically why you left. Concentrate on telling them what skills you have.

[thugulike]

You need to get a new employer even if it's only for a week. Or you could do voluntary work, anything which will give you a reference from your last employer. It's better to say you were unfairly dismissed and you are awaiting a decision from the court. I understand this is difficult for you. I have been involved in tribunals for many years and they can take a very long time to come to court. As for the remark from Elvis, take no notice of ignorant bigots. You know you dismissed and why and you have the right to have your case heard. Try not to become obsessed with it but be determined to move on. Do you have a friend who would employ you and then could give you a reference? I wish you good luck.

[troubled]

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time and trouble to post - it really is appreciated.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

You did not say what job you were doing.however I say stuff them all and go self employed. I DID AND IT WORKED WELL FOR ME......YOUR DESTINY IS IN YOUR HANDS ONLY.