Tony Watts and Allister McGowan, from the National Institute for Careers Education and Counselling, have carried out the study, New arrangements for Connexions, for CfBT Education Trust.

They found a number of new arrangements being implemented in the 47 Connexions areas, which they fear could result in varying levels of service.

Nine areas that have operated contracted out services will continue to do so; 16 areas will continue to operate under Connexions; nine areas that have been run by Connexions will see the services returned to local authorities; four areas are offering "a mixed solution" in which a range of service delivery methods are available; and nine areas have yet to determine how services will be operated.

Watts said: "The next couple of years are likely to see a growing diversity in local arrangements made for careers services for young people. It is important that these arrangements are monitored and analysed."

However, Dominic Ambler, researcher at the National Association of Connexions Partners, said: "We have been keeping up to date with the transitional situation. We feel much of the uncertainty that the report highlights may be due to the research being conducted midway through this period of transition.

"The mechanisms for ensuring high quality services are slowly coming into place. We fully support the need for rigorous inspection of information, advice and guidance delivery coupled with local ownership in relation to positive outcomes for young people."

www.cfbt.com.