Secure Custody and Open Custody

Secure Custody is ordered by the Youth Court Judge when the youth is assessed as posing a potential risk to the safety and well-being of the community, or when the youth has a history of breeching the rules of a youth custody facility. In secure custody, access to the community is restricted or removed for a period of time.

Open Custody is ordered by the Youth Court Judge when the youth is assessed as able to be managed safely in the community. Open custody consists of several small residential facilities, along with a province-wide network of community homes. Youth in open custody are encouraged to attend community schools, obtain employment, receive treatment and take part in recreational activities in the community.

In operation since 1987, the Community Homes Program is for selected youth aged 12 to 17 years. A number of the youth in community homes have been sentenced to open custody by the Youth Court, others may be on a Judicial Interim Release or serving community-based orders like Deferred Custody.

The Community Homes Program, is a program that gives members of the public the opportunity to offer their skills and expertise and play a part in ensuring youth receive the supervision they need in their home communities.

The Ministry of Corrections, Public Safety and Policing is looking for persons willing to operate a community home. Community homes are private homes located across the province. Each home is designated as a place of open custody and is approved for the placement of one or two youth. The Community Homes Program is a positive program of re-entry into the community for young persons in conflict with the law. The program assists youth to move successfully back into society by building positive lifestyles and supports for youth in, or near to, their home community.

The primary qualification of an individual who wishes to operate a community home is their ability to work with youth. These skills are evaluated by a social worker during a home study and assessment process. No specific university degree or diploma is required. Operators receive on-going training and support to develop their skills.