PYDP seeks to connect young people aged 16-25 to personalised learning, skills and employment opportunities with a central focus on good relations and preparing people for the world of work. It is interested in engaging potential participants that are vulnerable to polarisation/recruitment to organisations opposed to the peace process and face barriers to participation in mainstream provision. 

PYDP is flexible with multiple entry points and encourages participants to explore their needs and make decisions that improve their lives, communities and interactions with others. The programme engages with young people who face a range of issues including; leaving the education system early; substance abuse; affected by homelessness; difficult family backgrounds; been in or close to criminal justice system; suffer from poor health or mental health issues; mistrust of statutory institutions; not participated in civic society in a positive manner; and come from communities with a negative view of their future.

PYDP projects are designed at a local level, engaging with the referral systems to provide accredited and non-accredited opportunities in Good Relations, Personal Development, Employability/Education Skills Development and Community/Social Development.