The scheme has been tested on a smaller scale by charity The Challenge in London and Birmingham, but next month the government is to invite other youth organisations to submit bids to run pilots in England in 2011.
The government is particularly interested in organisations that are able to deliver the programme in rural and suburban areas.
4Children, Futureversity, the Prince's Trust, the Scouts and UK Youth are among the organisations the government is keen to encourage bids from, CYP Now understands.
The Challenge is also keen to take on a greater role in delivering the service.
Craig Morley, chief executive of The Challenge, said: "We'll definitely bid to run the scheme, but we'd also encourage other organisations to do the same. I suspect the government will need multiple providers as different organisations will have different strengths. For example, some providers will be better placed to run the scheme in rural areas."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
