I HAVE been very lucky because I have worked non-stop since I was 16 and have never been unemployed.
Unfortunately, my luck changed at the end of last year when I was made redundant from my job with Smith & Nephew, the healthcare company, along with the rest of my department.
Fair enough, I shall be 50 this year, and I am not a graduate, but come on!
I am intelligent, bright and lively, loyal and hardworking and can provide excellent references from all my employers.
I have sound information technology and communication skills, I'm very presentable and can learn very quickly.
So why can't I find a job that pays more than the minimum wage?
I strongly suspect it is because I don't have a degree rather than the experience that comes with age.
Employers would rather take on a new graduate with no experience than someone my age with no degree but loads of experience for the same salary.
Smith & Nephew took a chance on me ten years ago and they have never regretted it. Will no one give me a chance? Go on, gizza job - I can do that!
Jackie Bower,
Back Lane,
North Duffield, Selby.
Updated: 10:22 Friday, March 28, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article