CHILDREN’S charity Barnardo's Cymru has launched a project to help youngsters leaving their care.

The idea is to give youngsters who have no job the chance to get on the right road with support to develop their life skills and increase their confidence in the outside world.

Glenys Griffiths, Barnardo’s children’s service manager said: “Current figures on the education, training and employment destination of our service users at the age of 18 suggests that one in three leaving care are not going in to any employment or training.

“We want to change this situation and help these young people when they are leaving our service to find work and training opportunities.

“The Work Your Way project will offer a range of experiences to increase their understanding of the world of work and motivating them to engage in meaningful activity, rather than relying on the benefit system.

“We have found work experience placements so far at a hairdressing salon, an animal sanctuary and two have found employment at a recycling centre.

“Through our support and assistance the outcomes for the young person will be that they are prepared for independent living and have a pathway plan that meets their needs.

"Following work placements, Barnardo’s hopes that the project’s participants will be in a stronger position to apply for work and sustain a job or training course.

One youngster said: “The project gave me motivation and made me believe in myself. The Work Your Way course helped me find employment in a recycling plant.

Another major event in the Barnardo’s calendar is the charity bike ride – sponsored by NWN Media, publishers of the Leader – which takes place on June 26.

This is a day out for the family and everyone who likes cycling with a 14-mile route along the coastal cycle path from Pensarn to Rhos on Sea and back.

It starts at 10am and is expected to finish around 12.30pm when riders can have a meal at the Pantri Back Cafe at Pensarn where there is a special meal deal at £5 per adult and £2.50 for a child or pensioner.

It costs £8 each to enter although there is no charge for children.

For an entry form call 029 2043 6236 or register online at http://regonline.activeeurope.com/northwalesonyourbikeforbarnardos