North Yorkshire foster carer honoured with MBE for three decades of dedication
Ruth Ive has fostered nearly 80 children, offering stability and care
A long-serving foster carer from North Yorkshire has been awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours for dedicating over three decades to supporting children in need of stability and care.
Ruth Ive, 67, who lives with her husband Andy in Burton-in-Lonsdale near the Yorkshire Dales, has fostered nearly 80 children since 1995.
She said the recognition is not just for her, but for every foster carer who helps children feel safe, valued, and cared for. Ruth also encouraged others to consider becoming foster carers, calling it a “wonderful and valuable” role.
A fostering journey of care
Ruth and Andy didn’t initially know much about fostering when they first applied, but embraced the chance to provide long-term placements for children in need of stability.
The couple found that long-term care offered the best outcomes, and three of their long-term foster children have even become part of their family.
Reflecting on 30 years of fostering, Ruth said:
“There have been challenges over the years as well as joys and triumphs.
“I have never felt like giving up. Foster carers do a wonderful, valuable job, often under very trying circumstances. It is emotional work but guided by standards and laws – that can be a difficult balancing act.
“Thankfully, we have supervising social workers to support us and to whom we can turn for advice and guidance.”
While delighted to receive an MBE, Ruth shared that she initially thought the email informing her of the honour was a scam. She said:
“It’s not the kind of news you expect to receive via an email. I deleted it twice until I got a phone call from the Cabinet Office confirming it was real.
“I do not feel that I particularly deserve this award more than any other carer. Andy has always supported me and encouraged our fostering career. This should be a joint award.”
Despite her vast experience, Ruth admitted she still feels nervous before welcoming each new foster child, but continues to embrace her vital role in giving children a safe place to grow and thrive.