To panic about not being able to get a job?

I mean this in the kindest possible way - if you can afford it I’d invest in some therapy. You sound like you have very low self esteem. You have a first class maths degree, you write clearly and articulately. There absolutely will be a job for you. Have you thought about retraining in software development or data and analytics?

In the meantime could you look into supermarket work? I know you say lots of places need non-family references - was there anyone either not in the family or with a different surname who was senior to you in the business who can give one? Usually a reference just confirms you worked there these days, that’s all.

Do you have any passions or hobbies?

I really think you're underselling yourself thinking about fruit picking if you've got a first class maths degree. Start looking at data analyst type roles, they don't involve customer service. The government run an apprenticeship scheme for statistician's, they'll train you up and you're paid while you're doing it. There are other schemes like this too, I think the NHS has one. They are desperate for people with maths skills.

I’m glad you have got some space in that you live separately.

When it comes to smart school leavers, supportive family members do not generally collude with them thinking they do not have options. Hopefully in time by whatever route you take you come to understand that you are smart and capable and in terms of career you are not limited to minimum wage jobs in the long run. If you have been isolated for some time you will likely find your people skills and confidence improve with practice. If fruit-picking appeals to you go for it, you never know where these things might lead.

If you have a first class maths degree i recommend you look at accountancy or coding courses - makers academy for example.

There are often roles that don't need people skills really - look at more technical things that will value your maths. Look at training programs or entry level jobs with gambling companies - IT/software companies etc.

Definitely go for a bookkeeping/ payroll course/ job op

OP, a maths degree is amazing. It doesn’t matter that its ‘only’ from the open university. There are maths careers that don’t involve a lot of close public interaction. But i’m sure you could gain a bit more experience via different volunteer roles.

@acraftycorvid Local councils have paid apprenticeships and pay for and accommodate accountancy courses still. They require tests in Microsoft excel, but with a first in maths that won't be hard to learn via Google if you're not already well equipped in that area. My dp has a (less good!) maths degree and has done this in the years we've been together.

You sound massively downtrodden and lacking in confidence. Has that been drilled into you by family?

You must have a really good brain if you've got that maths degree! You should be so proud of that.
What about using your savings to train up in QuickBooks or something similar so you have that training/qualification under your belt too? For keeping booked for people/accountancy?

It's ok if you're lacking in confidence or people skills, we aren't all the same.

You sound like a hard worker, good with physical skills with a strong mathematical brain. Lots to offer. And a good work ethic

In the summer there will be fruit picking work - they won't be fussed on references.

In the autumn, coming into winter, Royal Mail shout out for Christmas staff and often, if you do well, they will keep you on after too.

I know neither of those are helpful right now, but just giving an idea of some things to look out for.

Another vote for a bookkeeping course.
www.bookkeepers.org.uk/Study--Qualifications/Bookkeeping-Courses/
These qualifications would enable you to set up your own bookkeeping business or get an accounts assistant role. The training would give you a focus and gaining qualifications a sense of achievement.

A first class degree is a fantastic qualification! Especially through the Open University; distance learning takes great discipline.

I think your issue is low confidence not a low skill set.

Someone with a first class maths degree could go into a number of professions. You are obviously intelligent and capable.

Would you consider CBT?

You keep saying you’re bad with other people but what makes you think this? It does read to me as if you’ve been told it by someone who wants your time for cheap labour. I hope you have some
people around you other than your father to support you through this next bit of your life.

What is your living situation ie are you living with this person?

Agree with pps, you are obviously bright and capable. You just need to add in some confidence and start thinking more laterally and a bit more can do. The reference situation won’t be insurmountable, even a short stint volunteering would cover it.

Confidence can be learned. A fair part of it is to be found in going slightly out of your comfort zone bit by bit and gradually building up a sense of capability.

Also in your situation you can ask family member for a reference, since they were also your employer.

Contact the volunteering place and ask for a reference.

And try to be much nicer about yourself - sounds like your employer has you believing you are worthless.

You are clever, reliable and good with numbers.

All you lack is confidence.

Agree with this!

OP you write very well and are obviously smart too.

Your lack of confidence is clear. You can build up your confidence and skills - you're still young!

I used to be incredibly shy and struggle speaking to people. I'm 100% better at this now

You have a First in Maths, clearly you're above the average person in terms of intellectual ability.

I think you're underselling yourself.

You weren't "loading vans" you were "managing logistics" and "supervising deliveries".

You can make your old into job anything you want it to be. IYSWIM.

Any recruitment agencies near you?

Any first class Maths degree is bloody brilliant! The Open University is just as good as any other university. Don’t listen to anyone telling you otherwise. Could you access career counselling through the Open University as one of their graduates?

If you have a first class maths degree then you are very clever.

Look at bookkeeping courses.

Is the family member a close family member (parent, sibling)?

Something feels wrong about how they have been treating you. Rather than building your confidence they have been doing the opposite.

How do other family members and friends feel about it?

I think you sound very capable and agree with the suggestion that you should volunteer to get more experience to boost your confidence and get other references.

You said you are not good at customer contact, slow and not good at taking initiative and thinking for yourself.

Sorry to ask but could you be neurodiverse?

There are charities that can help you get work experience.