Why is it that it seems to be the only criteria that employers look for is experience?!?! It's bloody ridiculous, just how am I going to get this experience if no-one will give me a job in the first place? Seriously, on job description they may as well say "Don't bother applying if you don't have more than 10 years experience working within the sector, because if you don't you have no chance of getting the job". Sorry, just had to rant.....
I was unfortunate enough to spend the best part of a year on the 'dole' at the age of 20 and can fully understand your frustration as it was like a massive barrier for me then. Eventually I got a work placement on the "Employment Training " scheme (Government scheme at the time for long-term unemployed). This meant working full time for £10 a week (slave labour, but some-things better than nothing!) on top of the dole money, but I was one of the fortunate ones that, having been given, and taken, the opportunity to prove myself, got taken on full time as a result. If you have an opportunity such as this, don't knock it, give it a go. It's your opportunity to put your efforts on show! Good Luck
