A NEW service which aims to ensure vulnerable young people and their families get intensive support has been launched by Wirral Council.

The Adolescent Edge of Care Team will help teenagers deal with specific issues they may face in what can be a difficult time of their lives.

Cllr Bernie Mooney, cabinet member for children and families, said: "It can be a difficult time for a young person, and their family, and we are aiming to provide help tailored to their specific needs, and wherever possible allowing them to remain with the families and communities.

"The effects of physical, emotional and hormonal development combined with a growing desire for independence and peer approval, can often be confusing for them and can in some cases lead to risk taking behaviour and even family breakdown.

"Wirral Council is making children's services a priority at the heart of everything we do.

"That's why even in a time of such financial pressure we have invested an extra £20million to make sure young people in Wirral are given the best possible chances at the start of their lives. Nothing is more important to us.”

The new service is offered seven-days-a-week, including evenings, and provides one-to-one support, group work, family mediation, respite, and placement support.

To get support call 606 2008 and ask for the Adolescent Edge of Care Team.