MERSEYRAIL has announced that it is supporting the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, in the delivery of the Mayor of the Liverpool City Region’s pledge of free travel for those leaving local authority care.

Earlier this month, Mayor Rotheram announced those leaving care will be eligible for free travel across the Liverpool City Region transport network.

The pass will entitle holders to free travel across all parts of the Merseyrail network, connecting care leavers with vital education, employment and leisure opportunities. The pass will be valid during both peak and off-peak periods, providing vital support to those establishing their new lives.

The pass will also be valid on local bus services, ferries and trains run by other operators for journeys within the Liverpool City Region.

James Smith, HR Director at Merseyrail welcomed the mayor’s announcement:- “For over 20 years, Merseyrail has been proud to be at the very heart of the communities we serve. Supporting young people as they take their 1st steps in building a new, independent life for themselves after leaving care is therefore something we believe is vitally important. We have played a key role working alongside the Combined Authority to ensure that this fantastic initiative was able to be delivered, and we very much look forward to seeing care leavers travelling on our network”.

More details about the new pass will be announced by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.