From Supported Internship to Paid Employment!

When Rowan joined the Route to Recruit Supported Internship programme in September 2025, he began his placement at Absolutely Fitness - part of the Absolutely Together charity - as a Gym Assistant. Like many young people starting their employment journey, Rowan was unsure of himself and lacked confidence. However, with the right support and opportunities, he has gone on to achieve something that, only months earlier, seemed like a dream.

At the start of his internship, Rowan benefited from gentle guidance from his Employment Coach, encouragement from the team at Absolutely Fitness and a daily list of tasks to help him settle into his role. Week by week, his confidence began to grow. Before long, he no longer needed his task list and was confidently completing his responsibilities independently, even spotting additional jobs that needed doing around the gym.

Alongside his role as Gym Assistant, Rowan's passion for health and fitness quickly became clear. He regularly took part in the gym's weekly Trim class and soon wanted to become more involved. What started with helping to plan exercises for HIIT sessions developed into timing activities during the Trim class. With growing confidence and determination, Rowan progressed to planning and delivering the entire Trim class independently each week.

His achievements have been remarkable. Not only did he develop valuable workplace skills, but he also built confidence, independence and self-awareness throughout his internship. The clients at Absolutely Fitness loved having Rowan lead the class, and the team were incredibly proud of how far he had come.

Recognising his dedication and progress, Absolutely Fitness offered Rowan part-time paid employment – a fantastic outcome and a testament to what can be achieved when young people are given the right support and opportunities.

Rowan's mum, Sandra, shared her thoughts on his journey: "Yourself and school should take credit for making what has been such a seamless transition into paid employment for Rowan, something that until a few weeks ago we could only dream about.



“This is the beginning of an exciting adventure for him and it is clear that the strong foundation you have helped him build has made this possible. Thank you for believing in him, encouraging him and giving him the opportunity to grow in confidence and independence. We truly appreciate your support."