Blithe
Remember this from someone who has been there.
Assuming that all applicants for a job have the same number of hours.
If a rating (IR) or endorsement gets you picked out from the bunch then it is worth it isn't it?? Don't apply for a job thinking "there is no way that I will get a look in".
Apply for every job you can. You will get knock backs but one day an employer will bite. Let the employer decide if you have the experience that they need.
DON"T GIVE UP