Mary Freeland, from Wishaw, is enjoying better health and fresh hope for a new career after attending the Fit for Your Family's Future course.

Mary heard about the course from her Routes to Work key worker.  She signed up along with her three children Steven (14), Alan (12) and Stephanie (11).

Mary, 37, said: "I was made redundant from my job as a dry cleaner two years ago and I've not had any luck in finding work since then.

"Fit for Your Family's Future seemed like a good way to learn some new skills and keep the kids occupied over the summer.  I'm really glad I decided to take part.

"I have to admit that I'm not always the most active person but using the gym and training with small weights has been great.  I definitely feel fitter than I did before I started and I'm keen to keep it up after the end of the course.

"I've also learned lots of useful information about nutrition and general health and wellbeing.  I will use this to keep my family healthier.

"Most importantly, I've picked up some new IT skills which I'm hoping will help me to find a new job.  I've also signed up to an additional LogintoLearn course to keep developing my knowledge of IT.

"Being unemployed for so long has been difficult, but Fit for Your Family's Future has given me renewed enthusiasm for finding work."

Mary's children have also enjoyed taking part in the course.

She added:  "Steven is quite sporty, so he's been thrilled with the chance to get some coaching from the professionals.  Even Stephanie, who's not a big football fan, has enjoyed being outdoors and making new friends.

"We've all had a really good time.  I've been able to learn some new things while the kids are engaged and kept active.  Overall the course has been a fantastic way to spend the summer."