Free travel passes are set to be given to care leavers aged 18 to 21 in Runcorn an Widnes.

The passes will allow free travel on buses, trains, and ferries across the Liverpool City Region.

This initiative, launched by Mayor Steve Rotheram, aims to help boost independence and reduce social isolation.

It is anticipated that around 1,500 young people from the region's six boroughs, including Halton, will benefit from the scheme.

The initiative was announced at the Combined Authority's September meeting and is supported by major transport operators within the region.

It is expected to help young people as they gain independence in often challenging circumstances.

The free travel will enable passholders to more easily undertake work or training, as well as attend appointments, meet with friends and family, and join in with leisure activities.

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, said: "Young people leaving care in our region often face real difficulties settling into their new lives.

"We know that access to free travel can have a hugely positive impact on their ability to connect with opportunity.

"It allows care leavers to do things most of us take for granted – look for jobs, take part in education and training, connect with friends and family, even have the choice of where to shop."

He added: "I’m pleased that, working with the support of transport operators across the region, we’re able to help these young people as they move forward with the next chapter of their lives."

Research by children’s charity Barnardo’s shows that young people who have grown up in care are three times less likely to be in education, employment, or training than their peers.

They are also more prone to feeling socially isolated, with almost one in five saying they often feel lonely.

Councillor Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council and cabinet member for employment, education and skills at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said: "We are committed to helping care leavers get the best start to adult life and supporting them to achieve whatever they set their minds to.

"Some of these young people have faced a lot of adversity, and it is our responsibility as corporate parents to ease their transition to adulthood and do what we can to remove the barriers they face."

Details on how eligible individuals will be able to access free travel within the city region will be made available in the coming weeks.