Look for temporary jobs with agencies, of the type and organisation that attract you. It’s much easier to move on when you have a foot in the door. I got a 20K temp job and, five months later, got taken on in a 30K permanent role. I can tell you similar stories of other graduates/PhDers I know.

"seems to me that the title 'Dr' gives many persuing a PhD a need to be recognised and respected jut because they haven't spent 4 years on a vauxall production line."

If hard work were the tool by which to judge qualifications, 4 years on a production line (whether making motor cars or cream cakes) would be deserving of the title of Reader. (I'll reserve the title Prof. for yet worse occupations).