Job security is becoming rarer and rarer these days. I'm in a fortunate position to be in a sector and position that has quite excellent job security, even if I choose to work for a different employer (or for myself).
Hope your friend is able to find a position to work soon. It is, indeed, especially tough with a child.
Yup, meeting him tomorrow to have a walk and coffee/tea so he can relax and express his feelings in a calm environment. Tough