Here at The Fitness Group, we’re passionate about removing barriers to the health and fitness sector and empowering people from all walks of life to pursue a career in this dynamic industry. This is embedded in our core values of Innovation, Integrity, and Impact. This year, our goal is to support 5000 people to start a new career in the UK.

To this end, we’re proud to announce a new partnership with Active Lincolnshire, one of 43 Active Partnerships across England that are working to make physical activity and sport a part of everyone’s life, regardless of age or background. Through the Active Lincolnshire Skills Fund, an initiative backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, residents in the East Lindsey and South Holland areas of Lincolnshire can gain qualifications that open doors to a variety of career opportunities.

The Active Lincolnshire Skills Fund is designed to support individuals at different stages of their careers in the sport and physical activity sector, including those already employed in the sector, those looking to enter or return to it, volunteers, and retirees keen to contribute.

Not only is the scheme helping to train the next generation of health and fitness professionals, but it will also work to bring about Active Lincolnshire’s vision of a county where more people are more active, more often. The fund will also equip professionals to serve the local community and help those populations with more specialist needs through courses including our Level 3 Award in Supporting Pre and Post-Natal Clients with Exercise and Nutrition, Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity and Weight Management for Obese and Diabetic Clients, and Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity and Lifestyle Strategies for Managing Low Back Pain, to name just a few.

How Does the Fund Work?

Individuals can apply for funding for any course or qualification relevant to their role or desired role in the industry. Applicants must live, work, or aspire to work (paid or voluntary) in a sport and physical activity role in either East Lindsey or South Holland. For our part, The Fitness Group has agreed to provide discounted course fees of up to 50%, ensuring the funding can be stretched further to support as many learners as possible.

We caught up with Laura Spurr, Skills Manager at Active Lincolnshire, to learn more about the initiative and how The Fitness Group partnership is helping to amplify the scheme:

“The partnership between The Fitness Group and Active Lincolnshire has been a game changer, providing us with a level of expertise and insight that we simply couldn’t have achieved on our own. Initially we recognised the need to ensure Skills Fund applicants were matched with the most relevant qualifications to their current or desired role and career goals. The Fitness Group’s in-depth knowledge of the training landscape and their ability to quickly bring to market qualifications on emerging and specialised topics allowed us to offer learners the opportunity to access qualifications that directly address their role needs and career aspirations.” 

She adds: “This collaboration has allowed us to maximise the impact of our Skills Fund, ensuring that individuals receive the most appropriate and beneficial training to support their local communities. It’s been a huge benefit and a vital part of the project.”

Real People, Real Impact

By giving learners access to essential qualifications, the initiative is helping individuals build careers, expand their knowledge, and better serve those around them. Here are some inspiring stories from just a few of the learners who have benefited from the scheme.

Angel: Supporting Women Through Pregnancy and Beyond

As the owner of Old School Gym, Angel has always been passionate about creating a welcoming environment where her clients feel supported. However, she recognised a growing need to expand her knowledge and offer tailored guidance to women during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

With funding from the Active Lincolnshire Skills Fund, Angel was able to enrol in the CIMSPA Accredited Level 3 Pre & Post Natal Course through The Fitness Group. This qualification will enable her to better support women during all stages of their pregnancy journey.

“The Fitness Group has been absolutely amazing,” Angel explained. “Without their support and Active Lincolnshire’s funding, I wouldn’t have been able to take this course. My tutor checks in with me regularly to see how I’m getting on and if I need any support.”

By gaining this specialist knowledge, Angel will enhance the services her gym can offer, creating a safe and supportive environment for women during pregnancy and postnatal recovery.

“Having this qualification will give me the confidence to properly support women in my gym,” she added. “It’s empowering for both me and them because they know they’re in safe hands.”

Emma: Learning on Her Terms

For Emma, a personal trainer at VFitness, balancing work with continued education was a challenge. Enrolling in The Fitness Group’s CIMSPA Accredited Level 3 Pre & Post Natal Course provided her with the flexibility she needed to develop her skills without compromising her busy schedule.

“The flexibility has been brilliant,” Emma shared. “I can watch the course videos whenever it suits me and dip in and out when I need to. Any time I’ve asked for support, they’ve responded within a few hours. Having a dedicated tutor from the start made everything easier.”

“The funding has enabled me to take the course and begin learning more about how the body changes during and after pregnancy,” Emma said. “Without it, it wouldn’t have been an option for me at the minute.”

This adaptable approach has allowed Emma to steadily progress through her studies while continuing to provide her clients with high-quality coaching.

Laura: Gaining Life-Saving Skills

For Laura, who works as a Receptionist at Station Sports Centre (Magna Vitae), the opportunity to complete a Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work qualification was invaluable. While she knew first aid training was important, the financial cost had been a barrier. Thanks to the Active Lincolnshire Skills Fund, Laura was able to take the course without the added financial pressure.

“I wouldn’t have done the course if it wasn’t funded,” Laura explained.

Although first aid wasn’t essential to her core duties, her position as a frontline staff member – greeting visitors and situated near a bustling café – meant she was aware of the potential to be approached in the event of any incidents.

Completing the course has already boosted her confidence, giving her the skills to respond effectively in an emergency.

“Now, I already feel so much more confident. It’s reassuring to know that if a situation ever arises where these skills are needed, I’ll be ready.”

Building a Stronger Workforce for Health and Fitness in Local Communities

The Active Lincolnshire Skills Fund is more than just a financial boost – it’s an opportunity for individuals to gain the confidence, skills, and knowledge they need to thrive in the sport and physical activity sector. By making professional training more accessible, this initiative is helping people unlock new career opportunities, build meaningful connections within their communities, and deliver safe, effective physical activity services to those who need them most.

With The Fitness Group’s flexible, high-quality training, learners are equipped to make a meaningful impact on their careers and the communities they serve. This partnership is breaking down barriers to education, empowering individuals from all walks of life to follow their passion for health and fitness.

For more information on the Active Lincolnshire Lincolnshire Skills Fund and available opportunities, please visit https://activeskillshub.co.uk/