Children in care are to be given greater support through the development of a an online community.

The CareZone project will receive £1m funding from the Government with additional finance to come from the private and voluntary sector.

CareZone is being created by The Who Cares? Trust, a national charity for children and young people in public care.

Children will help develop the virtual world which is designed to reduce feelings of isolation by enabling them to build relationships with carers and other children.

It will also provide secure space where they can digitally store items of personal value.

Health minister Jacqui Smith said: "With the development and implementation of CareZone, The Who Cares? Trust is now embarking on one of its most exciting, innovative and ground-breaking projects.

"The Government is pleased to support this initiative.

"It empowers children, providing a wealth of information on all aspects of care, health and education.

"It also provides them with a secure and private on-line world, helping to unlock their potential and tackle the sense of isolation that many children in care feel."

Schools minister Catherine Ashton added: "The Who Cares? Trust CareZone project is an excellent example of Government, business and the voluntary sector joining forces to help young people.

"The Government is firmly committed to ensuring that all children reach their full potential and this project will provide a unique system of support for children in care."

Check out The Who Cares? website at: Who Cares Trust