HR types: I'm trying to understand why I'm not getting interviews

[Snowybird]

If any HR types/recruitment consultants are reading this, I'd like your frank opinion.

I went back to work at 40 in a new financial-sector compliance career after staying at home with the children. The first two years went really well, look great on the CV. But then I lost my job recently. The headhunters like my CV and have readily put me forward for dozens of jobs, but I haven't got a single interview.
Obviously, times are very tough in the financial world, but I am wondering what other reasons there are.
Is it my age?
Am I underqualified with only two years' experience?
Is it a fatal combination of a 40-year-old's confidence and a 25-year-old's track record?
More important, is there anything I can do about it. I am now so desperate I am thinking of an unpaid internship just to keep active. But would that really make the difference?
BTW, these are London jobs I am going for. I did try for lower-level local jobs, but was instantly told I was overqualified and didn't stand a chance.
Any advice appreciated
Snowybird

Have you tried non-financial type jobs? Risk, Governance, and Audit jobs with finance experience are needed in almost all companies.

Also 'headhunters' are just agents looking for a bonus. Have you tried looking at applying to a company directly?

Are they putting you forward for actual jobs or just touting your cv around? Big difference. Are they getting feedback for you? Are they tailoring your cv for each job?

Sounds as though they might not be working hard enough for you, and are just desperate for some commission at the moment when companies are not recruiting.

You probably stand more of a chance applying yourself. Your CV sounds fine-your age shouldn't be on the CV anyway. I think an unpaid internship is a great idea or some voluntary work as you can then add it to your CV and avoid a gap. Also, there may be internal opportunities come up for jobs while you are there.