People in the Spen Valley are being asked to consider helping a young person facing a court appearance to change his or her way of life.

Foster carers are needed across the Spen Valley and Kirklees to provide a stable, caring environment for young offenders who have been remanded by the courts.

Alec Fraher, of Kirklees Remand Foster Carer Scheme, said remand foster carers could make an impact on a young person's life becaise it is always better for the young person if he or she could show the magistrates their way of life had improved during their stay with foster carers.

"It is a tough challenge to become a remand foster carer but it can be a real achievement," said Mr Fraher.

"The aim is to provide a homely environment which allows a young person to stop and think about what they are doing.

"The reward is to give them chance to improve their life and reduce the risk that they will commit another offence."

Remand foster carers need to have motivation, personal integrity, discretion, a clear and firm approach to offenders and crime, and respect for different ethnic, cultural and social backgrounds. They also need communication skills, understanding and judgement, a sound temperament, and commitment and reliability.

Foster carers can be single or couples, from any racial background, with or without children, with a disability, in or out of work or retired, home-owners or renting accommodation. Training and support, as well as an allowance, is provided.

Anyone who has these qualities, is over the age of 25 and is interested should contact John Bradnum on (01484) 226263 or Lynne Graham on (01924) 326114.