SOCIAL services chiefs in North Yorkshire have launch-ed an appeal for people to help look after troubled youngsters.

Officials want to expand the remand fostering service by recruiting a set of carers in the west of the county, to join the existing two teams of Scarborough remand carers.

Remand foster carers provide support in their own homes for young people who are remanded by the courts.

The aim of the scheme is to provide a secure environment and help prevent youngsters committing future offences while they are waiting to be dealt with by the courts.

The facility offers an alternative to offenders, some as young as 15, being remanded to secure accommodation or prison.

Louise Johnson, the youth offending team's leader in Harrogate, said: "The youth offending team is keen to see this service expanded to the west of the county.

"Remand fostering is a challenging role, but one that provides an opportunity to make a real difference to young people at critical stages in their lives."

Remand foster carers receive a fee of £150 a week, plus allowances, to provide care in their own homes.

Anyone interested should contact the scheme's development officer, Paul Reddiex, on (01757) 213399