dishwasher runs once then won't run again for around 1 week

Hi all!

I live in a rented property that comes with a dishwasher. The first time we use it, it runs absolutely fine. However, when I'll try to use it later the same day or the next day, it makes all the sounds of running (minus the sound of water splashing around) and the lights are on - however, no water - no clean dishes.

At that point I turn it off and will try again a week later and it's the same conundrum. It will run once, and not again.

Does anybody know what this could be? It would be a great help! Thanks