[Marsh.]

Tbf it's not completely useless.
It can help to fill a gap.

I did a couple of short term "unpaid" work experiences when I was claiming job seekers. One of which I wasn't forced to do, I found it myself.

I still got some money, the employers were always nice enough to give me something for my time but I wasn't officially earning a proper wage and it was just for a couple of months.

Anyway, it prevents a gap on your CV. Gaps are always a turn off for employers.

If I never bothered with any job outside the field I am actually passionate about pursuing I'd have not earned much to this day. Sometimes needs must and work is work. Employers will appreciate someone with a good work ethic who's done what they needed to keep busy or pay the bills over someone just waiting for the perfect job to land in their lap.