London Northwestern Railway (LNR) is proud to support the newly launched Care Leavers MetroCard, a pioneering initiative that gives care leavers aged 18 to 21 in the Liverpool City Region free travel on public transport — including LNR train services.
Launched by Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram on 27 March 2025, the initiative is aimed at removing barriers to education, employment, and social mobility for approximately 1,500 eligible young people across the region’s six boroughs.
The MetroCard grants unrestricted access to local buses, trains, and ferries. By providing free travel, the scheme promotes independence, reduces isolation, and ensures that care leavers are not left behind during the critical transition to adulthood.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“Young people leaving care often face difficulties settling into their adult lives. We know that access to free travel can have a hugely positive impact on their ability to connect with opportunity, and experience some of those things we take for granted – like shopping or getting to appointments.
“This pass will give them the freedom they need to explore opportunities, access education, and socialise – all key aspects of building a successful and fulfilling life.”
During the official launch event at Liverpool Central Station, care leavers shared their experiences of how the pass has already made a difference.
Tyler Preistley, one of the early recipients, said:
“I now have the freedom I need to be able to socialise and travel – it’s such an important part of my life. Being able to go anywhere without worrying about transport costs has opened up so many new opportunities for me.”
Jonny Wiseman, Customer Experience Director at London Northwestern Railway, added:
“We are proud to support this fantastic initiative. Public transport offers vital independence and connectivity for so many. By making it free for care leavers in Liverpool, we’re helping to give them the best start at adulthood.”
Eligible young people are automatically enrolled into the scheme via their Local Authority on their 18th birthday.
The Care Leavers MetroCard marks another step in creating a more inclusive and accessible public transport system, providing life-changing opportunities for some of the region’s most vulnerable young people.
