In recent months, much has been said about the jobs crisis hitting both younger would-be workers and those later in life, who may have faced a shock redundancy.
It can be easy to lose faith and give up on the job hunt, especially after dozens of rejections.
However, one man who lost his job more than 20 years ago after battling serious health issues, says: 'don't give up - there is a job out there for you which you are well-suited to...'
Options include 'returnships' designed to help experienced professionals refresh their skills and rebuild confidence could help, as we explain below.
Mark Allen has endured more than most. The 55-year-old worked in supermarkets for 20 years before his health and life started falling apart.
