Sorry folks, but all this makes me feel so glad I am self-employed. I got the big 'E' from a college six years ago after turning in profitable and enjoyable work for 13 years for them and that's the thanks you get.
My advice to anyone is go it alone and chose who you work for, on short term contracts if possible. Mine are often for a single day's work. If you like them, go back. If you don't then there are plenty of others who want to employ people on a contract basis.
Good luck anyway, but just remember your boss has been to the toilet as well as everyone else today!
Ted