I am 55 and never thought I'd be in this position, but I realise now that years of doing a bit of a 'made up' job has put me here and I don't know what to do.
I am under-qualified (didn't go to University as I was offered a full-time job at the BBC aged 17 and took it). I have worked my whole life in TV, Film, Video, Live Events and Content Producing and have suddenly found myself without work since January.
I have worked for broadcasters, film production companies, individuals, event companies, agencies and private clients across so many areas of the industry including: writing/producing/scripting/casting/directing/creative development and have spent the past 10 years freelance with enough work to bring me in an average of around £60K a year.
And then suddenly, nothing.
Everything seems to be working against me:
Age - pretty sure this is a factor.
Contacts - I have always relied on people who know me and understand my experience and skillset giving me work, and they have. But now - despite following up with everyone I can think of (even the ones that are a bit embarrassing to chase), there is nothing.
Lack of clarity - Because I am not a 'thing' - more a flexible/multi skilled and experienced person that can adapt - it's really REALLY hard to apply for jobs online (although I am trying really hard and doing really careful bespoke CV and covering letters almost daily - one or two a day at most).
I am also trying to apply for things outside of my field - I've tried Civil Service jobs/NGO and charity storytelling jobs/visitor experience jobs - things that have some correlation - but I don't seem to make it past first sift on anything.
Apart from the financial strain and burden on DH who is now starting to buckle under the pressure of being sole earner, I hate not working. Hate it.
I have no idea what to do. I feel sick and a bit desperate and have no idea how to find work, or pivot at my age. I don't feel old and still have so much to offer but I'm not sure anyone wants it!
Any advice welcome. I'm really struggling - financially and emotionally.