MYDG’s Participation Stats (April 2025 to March 2026)
MYDG supported 926 children and young people over 38 weeks of the school year and in holiday periods
The gender balance was 588 boys and 336 girls
Attendance at weekly activities ranged from 3-26 individuals with an average of 8 although typical attendance was 12
Black, Asian and other ethnic minority groups were well represented at 30% with participation levels reaching 39% for boys’ sports
In sports, 369 young people participated, 309 of them boys, reflecting what’s happening nationally with girls engaging much less at senior school stages – although MYDG is bucking the trend with girls-only swimming
Across all activities, 50% of participants were from the most deprived areas
5% were Looked After and Care Experienced children and young people
Poverty
Poverty is a very significant barrier to children and young people accessing extra-curricular activities, trips and sports. So MYDG is punching above its weight in providing up to 79% of these activities at Craigroyston Community High School where we’re strategically based. This report explains more: Poverty identified as main barrier to sport in Scotland – Observatory for Sport in Scotland
Trips
Memorable funded trips enjoyed by young people who would not otherwise have been able to participate included Blackpool, Bowling, Cinema, Football tournaments, Fox Lake Adventures, Go Karting, Innoflate, Laser Quest, Meals together, Ninja Warrior, Ratho outdoor activities/residentials, Safari Park, Sailing/Canoeing/Paddleboarding, Swimming, and Edinburgh Zoo.
Outcomes
Key outcomes achieved for young people included:
Improved communication, relationships and confidence
Stronger resilience and improved ability to look after self
Growth through teamwork and problem solving
Better able to plan and organise
Looking ahead
In 2026-2027, MYDG has clear goals in its strategic plan that focus on doing more to overcome the impacts of extreme poverty and engaging girls more effectively through innovative projects.
For more information please see our Annual Report and Accounts, published in June, on the Governance page of this site.
