A pound;60 million government project for disaffected youngsters has helped half of them back into education or training. The Neighbourhood Support Fund has provided cash for more than 660 projects in 40 deprived areas, including advice and counselling, sports, arts, and courses in information technology and practical activities such as motorcycle maintenance and decorating homes. A total of 22,350 young people joined between February 2000, when recruitment started, and March 2002.
