Previously there was no competition between PES and private labour agencies but due to reforms, the competition was emphasised in order to stimulate the labour market. However, in some cases the German Public Employment Services can seek cooperation with Private Employment Agency. One way is the granting of a placement voucher. It enables the job seeker to get support in finding a job from private placement agents. If the private placement agent successfully places the unemployed into a new job, then the placement voucher will be paid. For the first half, E1000 will be paid as soon as employment has been going for six weeks. For the second half, another E1000 will be paid after the employment has run for six months. The unemployment grant will be denied if the unemployed person: . does not cooperate actively in seeking a new job; . does not accept a decent offer; . refuses further training to gain employability.