I'm right there with you, I was mandated out of my job last November and even though I have half heartedly looked for work (as you say, still almost impossible without a death shot) I had finally found a career that I loved and was working in that career for 12 years and now it is impossible. I could get a job picking fruit or cleaning or some other shite (In the past I would do any job ) but now I just think 'fuck it' I want to do what I love doing . In some ways I am happy to consider early retirement but financially I am partially dependant on the state - that part worries me.

There are many in the same boat as you & can’t be easy. In the past I didn’t mind cleaning houses to make my rent in the winter season in Ibiza when it was all I could get...living there meant taking work on from a diverse range of options to survive & never minded hard graft. Had a good network there, but not here. Thankfully my last season was my best earner private cooking for high end clients & came home with savings. I’m also ok financially now due to an inheritance when Mama died. I never want to rely on the state, especially dealing with WINZ, one time years ago I had to & vowed never again. For now I’m happy not working yet know I’ll get a project going at some point, just not sure what direction it will be.