Over 120 individuals in Lincolnshire have gained valuable skills thanks to Active Skills funding, awarded by Active Lincolnshire.

The funding is enabling individuals living or working in East Lindsey and South Holland to access a variety of learning opportunities to support their work in the sport and physical activity sector, and enhance the skills needed to promote and deliver physical activity within their communities.

The fund has supported a diverse range of individuals to access learning opportunities; from volunteers applying for training to better support local clubs and community programmes, to to professionals seeking advanced qualifications individuals taking their first steps towards a career in sport and physical activity, and individuals just beginning taking their first steps towards a career in sport and physical activity.

The funding has come from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), a government-backed investment programme, which aims to foster pride in communities, support high-quality skills development, promote employment and productivity, and improve life chances for all.

Every funding recipient is able to access a tailored learning journey through the Active Skills Hub learning portal. Alongside their chosen course or training, learners have access to a package of UK Coaching e-learning courses covering fundamental topics such as Safeguarding, Mental Health for Sport and Physical Activity and Inclusive Activity Programming.

Laura Spurr, Skills Manager at Active Lincolnshire commented:

We’re delighted to have allocated over £75,000 of funding to support the development of Sport & Physical Activity related skills in East Lindsey and South Holland. This investment will help develop a stronger, more resilient workforce, building a more inclusive and accessible physical activity landscape.

The diversity of the training being undertaken promises some exciting advancements in the ability of the sport and physical activity sector to better meet the needs and requests of our residents, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of our communities.

Learner Liam Fay, Sports coach and Community Development Officer with Magna Vitae who has accessed a SAQ course International Diploma Distance Learning Course, focusing on speed and agility through the funding commented:

The Skills Fund has been absolutely fantastic. This initiative has enabled me to enrol onto an SAQ course—a qualification I have been eager to pursue for some time. This course will not only enhance my professional development but also improve my coaching skills. It’s an invaluable opportunity that is helped me achieve a career goal and personal ambitions.

Another learner Carrie, who received funding for a Level 3 Gym Instructing and Personal Training Diploma shared:

Without the support of the Skills Fund I wouldn’t be in a position to gain this qualification right now. I started out volunteering as a community sports coach after the pandemic and later transitioned to a paid role which I absolutely love. This qualification will help me further develop my skills and maybe one day have a lead coach role.

Although the funding has now been fully allocated, Active Lincolnshire are collaborating with UK Coaching to develop a range of subsidised training packages through the Active Skills learning platform. These will be available to individuals working and volunteering in the physical activity sector across Lincolnshire from spring 2025.