The 24-year-old wrote to hundreds of companies begging for work in a variety of positions. After an avalanche of rejections, he has now got a job with sandwich chain Subway at their branch in Guiseley, West Yorks.
Lee lost his previous job when the business he worked for ceased trading.
He said: “I quickly discovered I was just one of thousands of young people who wanted to work but could not get noticed. It became a vicious circle of relentlessly applying for jobs and being continuously knocked back.
Lee, of Yeadon, West Yorks, was referred to employment and training provider Ingeus who showed him techniques to improve his chances.
He added: “I want to be a role model for my children.
“I want them to know that working is part of life, and that earning a wage through your own efforts is very important.”
Lee’s boss Lara Dawes said: “Despite his tough times he has the ability to communicate with everybody who walks through our door. And he’s a great sandwich maker.”