Getting £20/hr doing mixed driving, but want to get into Class 1 Low Loaders. Is self-funding a NPORS/CPCS card worth the gamble?

Looking for some advice from experienced lads.

​Right now I’m on a decent Mon-Fri number, taking home £3.3k–£3.5k+ after tax. But my work varies constantly—vans one week, Class 2 or Class 1 the next (same pay regardless).

​I want to focus on Class 1 and move into low loader / plant work.

​The issue is the usual catch-22: everyone wants 2 years experience and a CPCS card. I'm tempted to just fork out the cash and buy the ticket myself, but I’m worried companies will still bin my CV because I don't have actual site experience.

​Is it worth gambling my own money on the CPCS? If you're in heavy haulage, how did you get your foot in the door without the 2 years experience?