Last modified on Thu 4 Feb 2021 08.46 EST
The Guardian spoke to people who have been made unemployed due to Covid and their experiences of trying to find work.
The performing arts project manager
‘There’s been nothing’
In Leicester, Martin Bailey, who has 35 years experience and worked as a project manager in the performing arts sector until October, said his “mental health has suffered” from being out of work. “There’s been nothing,” said the 57-year-old. “All live events and festivals have been cancelled, so there’s just no work.
“I’ve had to borrow money but now that’s running out. I’m even thinking of moving out of my house and doing a bit of sofa surfing, which isn’t something I want to do at my age.”