Will I ever find a job?

[MrsSnape]

I'm feeling so down lately. I started the new year determined that I would find work. It is essential for me to do this as I need to move out of this area in order to get my son into a decent secondry school...our current catchment school is the worst in the entire city. He only has 2 years left at primary.

Apart from this, I'm a single parent so I NEED to be working, I can't do anything or go anywhere until I get a job.

I'm finding it so impossible though I have an interview on tuesday but its for a full time job and I don't think I'll be able to do full time as I don't have that much of a support network for the kids.

I'm searching desperatly for part time work but there doesn't seem to be any, I have no experience...even agencies don't want me

Any advice welcome

Can you get something basic - waitressing, cleaning etc - and study part time to better your opportunities?

I'm in a similar situation MrsSnape so I do sympathise although that isn't really very helpful. Part time work does seem to be a bit thin on the ground at the moment, unless I want to go and do supply (am a Nursery Nurse) which I can't do because I would need childcare for DD until September when she starts school.

I had a really bad, depressing day yesterday but applied for a full time job anyway. I can't rule it out, we need the money more than anything but I, like you don't have a great support network. I fear things are going to be harder when DD starts school as I will be responsible for dropping off/collecting her and most nursery jobs, regardless of ft/pt want you there during the times I would need to be doing the school run.

I am also going to have the added worry of a place for DC2 who is due in May. I am finding it hard to get work mainly beccause I am pg and would only be working for 3 months before going on mat leave.

Just try and stay positive (I know it's hard) and keep looking. I always tend to think the longer it takes to find something, the better it is likely to be, in terms of suiting my family's needs. Keep your chin up and just keep on. I'm sure it will work out in the end.

Sorry, rubbish at practical advice, but do understand what you're going through.

Could you work as a nanny?
i do this, and i had no quals or experience before my first job!

Failing that, teaching assistant? part time shop work?

lazylou and MrsSnape, you should find out whether you live near each other - perhaps you can help each other out? apply to jobshare?

good luck, both of you, hang in there...