I have been trying to return to SW after a now 4 1/2 year break as I have 2 young children. We don't have family nearby and childcare would cost nearly as much as I earn so waited till older of the two was in school. Im not getting very far!I have 8 years statutory PQ experience, 6 years at level 3 and have kept up to date with newer developments such as safeguarding and personalisation and have even re-read SW theories. One agency claimed id be 'difficult to place' and declined, another I've previously worked for didn't even bother to ring back but one is prepared to take me on but Im worried that will lead nowhere too. I've applied for an unqualified social care assessor role locally and didn't even get shortlisted even though i know i met every point on the person and job spec. I find that very worrying so am now thinking its been too long to return to SW.Have other people been successful in returning or is it simply the job market is so bad at this time? Any suggestions? Id even be happy to do unpaid work on a team a couple of days a week just to get me more recent practice experience but I've no idea who to contact and everyone i worked with have retired!