Instructability, the programme created by spinal cord injury charity, Aspire and YMCAfit, to provide fitness industry training for people with disabilities, has been given a Big Society Award from the prime minister.

The programme offers participants the opportunity to gain a level 2 gym instructor qualification and gives them support to find a job in the fitness industry.

So far, successful graduates have involved people with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, limb loss, depression and loss of function caused by stroke or brain injury.

Since the first pilot course in September 2010, 54 people have qualified and 10 more are in training. Of these, 29 have found voluntary placements and 14 employment. Thirty more courses are scheduled across England, thanks to a Sport England grant.

Both the YMCAfit and Aspire hope this award will raise the profile of the programme and create interest and awareness in the industry.

Head of YMCAfit, Denise Page, says: “This award recognises the fact that disabled fitness instructors have a lot to offer the fitness industry. Employers are beginning to recognise that a disability does not affect professionalism or skill set. Disabled instructors often have a better understanding of how difficult it is to overcome barriers to improve health and fitness. They often have an enhanced level of empathy when working with clients.”