In the UK, former legal status granted to an adult for the care of children not one's own by birth, separate from adoption. In l984 in the UK effect was given to the provision under the Children's... Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/20688
custodianship 1. A situation in which someone is entrusted with guarding and keeping property or records. 2. A position in which there is a responsibility for the custody or guardianship of prisoners or inmates. Found on http://www.wordinfo.info/words/index/info/view_unit/3896/