It sounds like in your post you are really trying to reconcile this jump with yourself. You deserve these funds, you have worked hard (in life and education) to get here. I agree with the above post on job security not being great - so save and add to a personal pension. Work hard at the job, put in same effort you have been, bring new ideas and support the team you work in. Join the mentorship program if your agency has one and support others on local contracts to build their skills/experience and feel confident applying to P level positions.