To ask if you would employ someone with no references.

[ThatsendMum]

I have been a carer for my disabled now adult dd for years.
Before that I was sub contracted for two companies, neither of which exist anymore.

At some point it is likely that my dd would move to supported housing meaning I will return to work on at least a part time basis but I have no references and I am really panicking. IABU to think no one is going to employ me without references? I am going to try and get volunteer experience when I am in a position to but I am worrying that will not be enough.

You can get personal character references though. Not just job references.

Do a course and get a reference from the tutor.

Depends what type of role you are going for

Personally, I would want to be able to vet some work history

Is going self employed again an option to build up some relationships? Or you could temp and then it's not so important.

Options:

Get character references from friends

Do some volunteering - charity shop, scouts, whatever and use them as references

Ask people from activities you do - do you sing in a choir? Ask the conductor. Go to church? Ask the vicar. Etc etc.

I would say in your circumstances it would be totally understandable to not have professional references if you explained the situation and that previous employers no longer existed. If you know of somebody who could provide a personal reference, perhaps a group you take DD to or a friend / acquaintance that may be a good alternative. Also the volunteering. Good luck.

You have experience.
You have had jobs before which you can list and give details of as per a normal cv, you list the position of carer too and include all the things you do, time management, Admin, financial management, diary and travel arrangements etc in addition to any physical caring which you can be brief about. The fact you have diligently done something for so long says a lot about you and for some positions is a crucial thing. I'm certain someone will give you a chance. Good luck.

Yes, in this instance character reference is the way to go.
Anyone who has known you a while and is a 'respectable person' someone who has some responsibility of some sort usually does the job.

If you are planning to go into a carer role you will be snapped up !

Are their any friend from working days who could write you a reference

I'm sure if you explain the situation you will get a job. I would personally see you as extremely hard working and caring person who has had a challenging situation therefore probably good with the public

Good luck 🤞

I don’t think references are as important as before. In fact, not sure I was even asked for any when I got my present job.

If your applying for a caring role the employer should send off for an enhanced DBS check anyway.

Thank you everyone!

A character reference is definitely something that I could do. I did not realise that would be an option.

Yes I might depending on the circumstances. In your case where you haven’t been employed I would be more likely to than someone who had a job but his employer wouldn’t give him a reference