DYW Moray Shares Findings from Independent Economic Impact Assessment

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DYW Moray is pleased to publish the results of a recently commissioned independent economic impact assessment, aimed at better understanding the contribution of our work to the Moray economy and community.

The report, produced by MKA Economics Ltd, offers the first formal analysis of the value created through DYW Moray’s programmes, partnerships, and engagement with local employers. The findings offer valuable insight into both the benefits generated to date and the opportunities for further development.

 

The assessment draws on a range of evidence, including responses from 42 local businesses who completed our survey, discussions with key stakeholders at UHI Moray and Moray Council, and three in-depth employer case studies. Together, these sources help to build a clearer picture of the impact in our local area.

 

At DYW Moray, we believe in partnerships that connect young people with the world of work. This report shows how that approach is supporting businesses, schools, and the wider community in meaningful ways – whether through recruitment, skills development or strengthened relationships between education and industry.

 

Sarah Barnes, DYW Programme Manager, said:

“We commissioned this assessment to put a clear value on the work we do, and the results show that every pound invested in DYW Moray delivers real economic returns and tangible benefits for local businesses. It confirms that by connecting young people with employers, we’re not only supporting skills development but also driving productivity and growth across the region. This evidence strengthens our resolve to expand these partnerships and ensure more young people in Moray gain meaningful, work-related experiences.”

 

Scott Dunbar, DYW Board Member and Partner at Johnston Carmichael, said:

"This independent assessment confirms what those of us involved in DYW Moray have long believed – that investing in young people and building strong links between education and employers delivers real, measurable value to our local economy. These findings not only validate the work already being done but highlight the exciting potential for further growth. As a Board, we’re proud to support a programme that is helping shape a more resilient, skilled, and future-ready workforce here in Moray."

 

 

 

 

Key findings from the assessment include:

 

  • For every £1 invested in DYW Moray, an estimated £2 of economic value is generated – a cost:benefit ratio of 2:1.
  • 73% of businesses expect to see greater benefits over the next 1–5 years, acknowledging that many impacts are long-term due to the young people focus of the programme.
  • An estimated £1.03 million of direct annual impact is attributable to DYW Moray, rising to £1.44 million when local multiplier effects are included.
  • The net contribution to the economy, expressed as Gross Value Added (GVA), is £634,396 per year.

 

Among surveyed businesses:

 

  • 19% reported cost savings, averaging £31,000 per company.
  • 24% cited improved productivity.
  • 7% reported increased profitability.
  • 35% valued their involvement with DYW Moray at approximately £2,000 per year.

 

Mark Kummerer, Director MKA Economics (Fochabers), said:

“The independent economic impact assessment draws on facts, figures and forecasts from a survey of businesses, interviews with stakeholders and a selection of case studies. It demonstrates that DYW Moray generates a significant economic value for local businesses, a return on investment and perhaps most importantly opportunities for young people to find out more about the vast array of career opportunities in Moray – essentially a win win for businesses and young people alike.”

 

These findings are published as DYW Moray works towards its vision for 2030: to be recognised nationally as a model for employer-education partnerships. Our aim is to ensure that all of Moray’s schools and college are meaningfully connected with local businesses, making apprenticeships and real-world learning part of the everyday experience for our young people.

 

The report also outlines areas where further development would enhance impact. These are already being taken forward as part of our strategic planning and commitment to continuous improvement.

 

This assessment marks an important step in evidencing the role DYW Moray place within our region – not only in terms of economic return, but in the value placed on collaborative working, long-term talent development, and the future prospects of our young people.

 

For a copy of the full report or to learn more about DYW Moray’s work, please contact: sarah.barnes.moray@uhi.ac.uk.