Does a degree ever become too old/invalid for job-searching?

Hi,
Sorry if this sounds like an old question, but does a degree ever become too old or no longer relevant in the jobs market?
I graduated in 1995 with a degree in History. I then worked until I had my first child seven years later. Now, with my children all at school, I would like to return to the job market. I have no recent experience in anything and so started for looking for training. However,because I have a degree, I have been told I can't get funding. Also, I have been told that any training I undertake, I would need to show evidence of recent study. So really I am in a catch 22 situation. I was wondering if anyone has experienced anything similar or indeed if there is a time when your degree is no longer useful alone in trying to get a job?
Thanks for reading and I hope I have not gone on too much! gingercat