YOUNG people leaving care will be offered a helping hand thanks to more than half a million pounds of government funding.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said he wanted the region to "act as the parents of all our care leavers".

The new Greater Manchester Guarantee for Care Leavers means people leaving care will have access to mentors, helped into education, employment and training.

Care leavers will also be able to travel for free on buses in the area. Mr Burnham hopes funding can be found to allow care leavers to use the pass up to age 21.

Mr Burnham said: "We know life as a care leaver can be hard. Without the safety nets so many of us take for granted, such as parental support, everyday living can be a struggle when faced with barriers most people never encounter.

"This Guarantee is about our city-region offering the support, encouragement and opportunities care leavers need.

“On my early morning rough sleeper walkabouts I meet too many people who have been through the care system. We have to do right by them."