When Mark* joined the Restart Scheme, he was in a bad way. He had recently separated from his wife, which resulted in him not having access to see his children. He was suffering from depression, anxiety and insomnia, and was living in supported council housing.

Mark really wanted to get back into work, but his only desire was to be self-employed and own a gym. During the initial meeting with his Work Coach, Russel Baker from Ingeus, they discussed the financial implications for Mark to be able to open a gym. They explored all the options looking at bank loans, savings and grants. Russel then helped with support in searches for local grants and they both agree that external investment would be the best option.

To move things in the right direction, Mark and Russel discussed next steps which were to look at property and equipment for the gym. Then after a list of properties were identified, SMART** objectives were set for Mark to explore. As the Restart Scheme helps with all barriers to employment, Mark was also referred to an Employment Psychologist to support with managing his depression and anxiety.

Despite all the barriers, Mark still had his goal in sight, and he wanted to achieve his dream of being a self-employed gym owner. With the help of the Restart Scheme, he was successful in being able to do just that! He has taken over a premises and set up a martial arts fitness centre. The Restart Scheme continues to support Mark with regular calls to check how he’s getting on.

*Pseudonym 

**SMART objectives: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound Identifying skills and upskilling | National Careers Service