Hi troubled, personally I wouldn't tell them why you are no longer employed with you former employers, why not say that you decided you needed a change, had taken a sabbatical, cared for a sick relative, anything really. If you are worried about references, dont, all references are now is a form that has boxes to be ticked and always give the name of someone who will give you a good one (reference that is). Don't let this situation hold you back, start applying for jobs that pay 40-45k a year, that will show the barstewards!