Unemployed, job hunting and massivley hating it

Long story short we relocated in December to have a much quieter life in a rural area, both quit our jobs. We brought a house that needed work but we had money that would keep us going for a while. My wife got a job in May and that just keeps us going at the moment. In June I had to admit I was getting nowhere and go on JSA.

Finding a job for a 55yo who is happy to do min wage jobs with the least stress, but has never done a min wage job is very difficult. I did work as a IT hardware service engineer but ended up hating it, couldn't wait to leave. I started to apply for min wage warehouse and driving jobs but I have had one interview in 5 months of looking. I have always worked Mon-Fri 9-5 type jobs and no way can my brain adjust to shifts, weekends etc. There are the jobs out there that fit in my 'box' and I have applied for 18 in last 3 weeks but get nowhere. Am I seen as 'over qualified' even though I have no real high education and just worked my way up?

This is really affecting my mood, my depression, and my marriage. My wife is being supportive but I am having to constantly hide how I really feel from her because it upsets her. The mask cracks occasionally and I loose it and we just end up argueing. I am just permantly exhausted. I looked at what other benefits I can get but there is nothing as I am not bad enough to get PIP and Universal credit is pointless as my wife earns about £30k. 

There is no real question that I am asking just wondered if anybody had the same issues and how you got a job?

Rob

Parents
  • I can relate to this, I'm in a similar position at 52 though I have a supportive partner, just hoping that can last!

    I'm currently thinking the way to go is freelance. Instead of looking for a job I'm going to research other sources of income that involve my interests (such as writing and graphic design). I still apply for jobs but nothing comes up. Having a professional CV doesn't seem to help with the minimal pay jobs, and although no one will say it Im pretty sure that being in 50's doesn't help either.

    Sorry I cant help much but I do feel your pain!

Reply
  • I can relate to this, I'm in a similar position at 52 though I have a supportive partner, just hoping that can last!

    I'm currently thinking the way to go is freelance. Instead of looking for a job I'm going to research other sources of income that involve my interests (such as writing and graphic design). I still apply for jobs but nothing comes up. Having a professional CV doesn't seem to help with the minimal pay jobs, and although no one will say it Im pretty sure that being in 50's doesn't help either.

    Sorry I cant help much but I do feel your pain!

Children