A NEW programme of support for care leavers in Wirral is set to be approved during the first cabinet meeting next week.

The ambitious plan, Local Offer for Care Leavers, outlines how the council and partner organisations pledges to help more than 800 vulnerable youngsters in their care as they leave local authority system.

It will include specific information on what youngsters leaving care can expect, help with education, training and employment plus health and wellbeing.

Cabinet member for children, families and education and Labour ward councillor for Liscard, Tom Usher said: “We’re committed to making sure vulnerable young people get the best possible support.

"Protecting the vulnerable is our biggest and most important responsibility.

“The Local Offer for care leavers is about making sure every person who leaves our care knows exactly what support is available to them, they know what they can get, and where they can get it, and they’re encouraged to take advantage of the help that is there for them.

“Making sure these young people are supported is vital.

"They deserve the best start in life, and the best possible chance to build a career and achieve their ambitions.”

This pledge follows a recent announcement that care levers in the borough will be exempt from council tax until they turn 25.

Cllr Usher added: “The process has been helped by the involvement of children and young people in shaping the offer.

"We have had conversations with the Care Leavers Council and I’d like to thank them and assure them that they will continue to be engaged to shape the offer.

“This document – and our promises to young people who have needed our support – is not the final word on this and I fully expect it will continue to develop over time, reacting to changing needs.”

The new programme will be presented to Wirral Council’s cabinet when it meets on Monday, June 24.