Living without a job: Personal stories

UK unemployment has reached 2.62 million, says the Office for National Statistics.

Youth unemployment reached a record high of 1 million.

Unions and youth campaign groups are warning that 16- to 24-year-olds are bearing the brunt of the UK's job losses.

Michael Hill is from Llandrindod Wells in Wales, and has been unemployed since he left sixth form two years ago.

Click on the tabs above to hear more stories from people who are trying - and failing - to find work.