Teenagers will be offered mediation with their parents or family

Emergency accommodation is being provided for those who leave home, in one of the first schemes of its kind in the UK.

A team of specially-trained volunteers will provide support and advice about drugs and health.

Liverpool City Council says one of the key roles of the project is mediating between teenagers and their parents.

Both sides will be brought together to talk through issues, with the aim of helping the runaways return home, or find other accommodation.

The council has been awarded �420,000 by the Department for Education and Skills towards the scheme.

'Growing problem'

Councillor Jeremy Chowings, Executive Member for Health and Social Care at the city council, said: "Runaways are a growing problem, not just in Liverpool, but nationally.

"There is often no single reason why teenagers run away from home, it can be many things varying from a breakdown in family life, to bullying at school, exam pressures, money troubles, drugs and alcohol problems.

"Whatever their reason, these vulnerable young people are convinced that running away is their only option.

"We want to make sure there are people out there who can help them."

The project will also develop links with the children's charity NCH, Merseyside Police, Connexions and other voluntary services.