Other ideas

Should I consider volunteering?

Looking for work is supposed to be a full-time occupation in itself, so why consider volunteering?

Here are four good reasons:

1. It will help to combat the feeling of loneliness
2. It shows a prospective employer that you are positive and want to keep busy
3. You will gain personal satisfaction from applying your skills
4. There is an opportunity to learn new skills

Where can I find out about local volunteering opportunities?

Volunteering opportunities 
Gumtree 
Community Barnet

Would now be a good time to retrain or learn new skills?

Whether you’re looking for a job or looking to get on in your career, improving your skills for work can open up new opportunities. There’s a huge range of courses available. Some are free, and you may qualify for financial help. There’s also plenty of free advice to help you decide:

Directgov learning for work

Barnet College offers a free short course to retrain or learn new skills to help you back into employment

Forward4work

A further website which may prove useful:
www.changingdirection.com

What help is available if I want to start up my own business?

Setting up a business is not for everyone, but for some people redundancy is the start of something completely new: 
The Prime Initiative is a UK charity that helps people over 50 to set up in business

Business Link in the South East of England has lots of practical advice and support to offer.