What is remand fostering?

Among the different kinds of fostering available based on personal preference and lifestyle is remand fostering. This is specifically for young people who have been involved in the criminal justice system.

Here’s what you need to know from Beacon Fostering about remand fostering and what to expect.

How does remand fostering work?

A young person in remand foster care is looked after by foster carers while they await trial for crimes that they have been accused of.

As an alternative to being held in custody of the law or in secure accommodation, it is also an opportunity for them to show how they have changed positively. Their foster carers will also support them with attending court and meeting with solicitors and lawyers.

The duration for which a young person stays with remand foster carers is usually for a few months.

What are the advantages over secure accommodation or custody?

Remand fostering allows for a young person who has been involved with the law to still be raised in a nurturing, familial environment. Think of it as providing a safe haven for the young person, and reducing the risk of them reoffending in the future.

Is there any specialist training required?

Fostering agencies usually provide the required specialist training for experienced foster carers who would like to look after children who have been in trouble with the law. You are required to have a patient, compassionate, understanding, non-judgemental nature toward the young people you’ll be looking after, and you may be particularly suited if you have experience working in the criminal justice sector, or in related roles such as a police officer, youth worker or social worker.

For more information about foster care in Lancashire, Merseyside or other areas of the North West, please get in touch.