Although no figures are yet available on the number of applications received for the 2005-06 programme, anecdotal evidence suggests the lead organisations for the Big Lottery Fund-run diversionary activities scheme are introducing tighter rules that some groups believe they can't meet.
Department for Education and Skills guidance on the English scheme in 2005-06 says PAYP should be for "at-risk" people, and there should be evidence of "positive outcomes".
A Big Lottery Fund spokeswoman said that although this guidance has not been changed, there have been moves to ensure the criteria are enforced more rigorously.
Guidance issued by Connexions Greater Merseyside, which leads on PAYP in the region, states providers must deliver 390 hours of activities over 12 months for it to count as a full-time place. Each place is worth 1,000 and can be accessed by up to three young people.
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