Michael Pearce from Nottingham was made redundant in August. He says he's struggling with the lack of opportunity having applied for a thousand jobs, with no success.
He was let go from his office administration job at the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre in Nottingham, which is currently undergoing redevelopment.
Since then, he says he's applied for at least a thousand jobs.
Nathan Lenson from Swadlincote in South Derbyshire is in a similar position. He says supporting his family is a constant worry since being laid off in December.
East Midlands unemployment figures October - December 2020