For many people in their 50s and 60s, losing a job can be the start of a long and unexpected struggle to get back into work. Despite years – or even decades – of professional experience, some say they are applying for hundreds of roles without success, while others have had to take lower-paid work or claim benefits to make ends meet.

The number of people aged 50 to 64 receiving out-of-work benefits has reached 2.15 million, according to recent analysis by the Centre for Social Justice. We’d like to hear from people across the UK who have found it difficult to find work later in their careers.

If you have left a role and struggled to get back into employment, do you think age has played a part? Have you encountered AI-driven recruitment systems or online application processes that you feel have made it even harder to get an interview? Have you had to rely on Universal Credit or other benefits after years of working?

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