Russ,
Being a keeper is many peoples dream job, I was very luck to go straight into a job on an excellent traditional estate with a very good boss and headkeeper, that position took me to working overseas as a keeper.
On returning to the UK i decided to have a change of career, it was the worst mistake for once out, it was very hard to gain a position as a full time keeper even though i have an excellent track record.
There is massive competition for jobs and to be frank, the best jobs are not advertised and go through the networking system. The jobs which are have a large response, many of which are experienced and very good applicants. You will be lucky to even get a response to an application never mind an interview.
I would also recommend looking for a part-time paid job as a keeper and keep your trade, things will get better given time.
Im lucky to have a good job and also a great part-time keepering job which pays good money, it doesnt have the pressures of a demanding estate and lets me work to my own hours, which can still be very high, so i have the best of both worlds.
Good luck in what ever you choose.
Jamie