This practice guide is one of an ongoing series produced as part of the Beyond Youth Custody (BYC) programme - a national programme which examines and promotes best practice in the resettlement of young people and young adults leaving custody.
The guide explores the family's unique position to fulfil key characteristics that research has shown are associated with effective resettlement support. It highlights recommendations and considerations that can be adopted into the practices of those working with young people and their families. As well as outlining various ways that families can help with personal and structural support, the guide also provides tips for successfully engaging with family members and sets out ways of overcoming the challenges around family resettlement support. The guide recognises that young people leaving custody are often motivated by repairing relationships with their family, including their children. Reforming relationships with children can provide a positive new identity for young adults leaving custody, acting as a powerful diversion from reoffending. It recommends that for young offenders with children, strengthening that identity through the parent-child bond should be a priority. Examples of positive practice from HMP Parc and HMP YOI Deerbolt demonstrate how work with young adults aimed at strengthening bonds with their children has been successful, with positive outcomes both for the adult and for their children. The importance of parenting classes and family conferencing in increasing the confidence of young offenders in their parenting skills is highlighted. BYC have also produced a policy briefing on the role of family in the resettlement of young adults.
To find out more about the role of children and families of young offenders in resettlement read the BYC practice guide below:
