People in Moray who experience disadvantage in securing work can receive support in gaining employment and training. 

The Moray New Futures Fund (MNF) is funded via Moray Youthstart as part of the Moray Community Planning Partnerships' three year Regeneration Outcome Agreement.  It details proposals for enhancing disadvantaged neighbourhoods in the area so that they can benefit from job opportunities and improve their quality of life.

The initiative delivers an employability service, working with those people experiencing homelessness, recovering drug users, unemployed young people and other disadvantaged groups.  It enables them to become more employable and progress towards the labour market, and ultimately into employment. 

It is anticipated that thirty individuals will take part in the Moray New Futures employability programme this year.  A support worker will be on hand to offer assistance, participation is voluntary and the interventions available are flexible and tailored to the needs of each client.  The project also offers an aftercare period and will continue support for up to 18 months after clients have moved on.

The initiative is backed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), HIE Moray, Moray Council, Moray Drug and Alcohol Team (MDAAT) and Youthstart. 

Nicky Cuthbert, HIE Moray's information and marketing assistant said:  "Moray New Futures has an excellent track record - delivering positive outcomes for clients.  It is well known and respected throughout the Moray community.  The strength of the project lies in its individual approach to each client and it is undoubtedly helping to narrow the gap in employment and increasing economic activity."

Jacqui Taylor, Moray New Futures programme co-ordinator said:  "The programme has successfully supported individuals over the last five years into work, training and further education.  The initiative really works because it can offer flexible support at the right pace for the client to help them overcome barriers.  MNF receive referrals from more than 45 agencies in Moray as well as self referrals, demonstrating the success of this person centred approach."

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is the lead partner for the service.  Alongside are; HIE Moray, Careers Scotland, Citizen's Advice Bureau, Moray Voluntary Service Organisation, Moray Council, Moray College, LEAD Scotland, MDAAT and Jobcentre Plus.