unemployment looming

debbie51_2

Got told yesterday (great timing huh) that my contract would not be renewed, runs out 31st march, thought this might happen so I was slightly prepared. In fact spent yesterday feeling quite liberated by the prospect of being able to look for a job closer to home and avoid an hours commute each way (also beginning to hate line manager). Then this morning got a letter from HR department telling me that I could be redeployed with the authority (local govt. job) and have my salary protected for up to 3 years.
I know most of you must be thinking this is a no brainer and why am I complaining, after all it looks like I will get a job and keep my salary, but......
would this be the opportunity to radically change my life?
I would appreciate any comments/advive/tips from any other money savers who've been in a similar situation or anyone who has any ideas, especially if you're 51 year old females with not terribly good academic qualifications!