AN innovative learning tool designed to help people live independently when they leave the care system has been set up in Inverclyde. 

The Practice Pad is a house where young people can learn life skills including cooking, cleaning, and budgeting within a supportive environment. 

The learning facility has been developed by a group of Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) staff who took part in The Lens Project, which focused on improving outcomes for children and young people. 

Inverclyde HSCP hopes the pad will give young people the confidence they need to live on their own and manage a tenancy. 

Councillor Robert Moran, chair of Inverclyde Integrated Joint Board, said he was delighted to see the Practice Pad up and running.

He said: "This is a simple but clever idea which will really make a difference to these young people.

"We see young people ready to leave the care system who may need some extra support to help develop their life skills which will empower them to succeed and thrive.

"This will give them the independence they're looking for but with support from our HSCP staff should they need it.

"The aim is that they'll then go on to live on their own with the skills and experience they need.

"I commend the staff who have been involved in developing this project and making it a reality."