Am I too old to go after my dream job?

DEAR DEIDRE: I WAS made redundant from a job I loved at the age of 58 and now I wonder whether I should be put out to pasture.

I was a play worker and loved being with young children.

It was so rewarding and I was very good at it, but after 20 years I was let go.

I have been to several interviews since then, but haven’t got a job even though I was told I came close.

I am currently working as a cleaner in an office block because I need to work.

I am 61 this year and can’t help but wonder whether I will ever go back to the job I love.

Being constantly rejected for posts is soul-destroying.

DEIDRE SAYS: It is normal to feel downhearted and lose confidence after redundancy, but these things can spur you into making a positive career change.

Well done for applying for so many jobs since and for securing a new post.

Please don’t let your head drop. Someone will see how dedicated to a childcare role you will be.

Find support for your mental health from Mind (mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393).

My support pack Help For Job Hunters is full of ideas to get a job you love.

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