Picking up programming after a lengthy time out.

[Waldo 96]

There is - getting hold of good SQL people is difficult. If the OP does want to get into coding in general then a junior SQL position is a possibility as companies are so desperate for them they are willing to take starters on and train from the ground up.

 

A friend of mine is a SQL expert / DBA. He's found there isn't much available work-wise in Sheffield; so if you know differently, please share and I'll pass any tips on. He is currently working in Doncaster I think, but would prefer Sheffield.

[Obelix 11]

I'm not in Sheffield I'm afraid - as noted above it's not especially the hotbed for IT that places like Leeds and Manchester are.

 

SQL stuff, especially if you are good is always paying money - Shell, (and indeed many oil firms) as well as finance and insurance are all looking at the moment but the activitiy is either London Leeds or Edinburgh at the moment. Some in York but not as much. Most of these places are also willing to take on and train from the ground up but the money isn't brilliant (it's not bad just not as good as it could be until you get some marketable skills)