Ruth and Phil have dedicated their lives to fostering, providing a loving and stable home to children and young parents in need. This March, they will celebrate an incredible 35 years as foster carers, a journey that has touched the lives of over 300 children. Their story is one of kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others, making an invaluable contribution to the fostering community.

Over the years, fostering has evolved, becoming more professional with better support and respect for carers. Ruth and Phil have embraced these changes, adapting to new training and digital record-keeping. One of Ruth’s unique approaches is writing letters to the children in her care, rather than just keeping bullet-pointed notes. “It gives them a picture of their growing up,” she explains. “When they look back, they won’t just see reports and assessments; they’ll see their own story, their milestones, and memories.”

Specialising in parent and child fostering, Ruth and Phil offer a safe home for young parents and their babies, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood. They have supported young mothers, some arriving before birth and others straight from the hospital, ensuring they receive the care and guidance needed to develop their parenting skills. Their role requires 24/7 support, attending appointments and being constantly available, yet they describe it as incredibly rewarding. “You see the difference you’re making every day,” says Phil. “Watching a young mum grow in confidence, seeing her bond with her baby, and knowing you’ve helped create that stability—it’s an amazing feeling.”

Their dedication extends beyond fostering. Ruth has worked closely with local authority professionals to improve awareness and support for parent and child fostering, advocating for better resources and recognition. Despite the difficulties of recruiting carers for this specialised role, she remains committed to encouraging others to step forward. “If you have the heart for it, don’t let doubts hold you back,” she advises. “Start the process, have the conversations—you never know where it might lead.”

Family is at the heart of Ruth and Phil’s fostering journey. With five children of their own, 14 grandchildren, and their first great-grandchild on the way, they embrace every foster child and parent as part of their extended family. “From the moment they walk through our door, they’re family,” Ruth says.

Ruth and Phil’s impact on fostering cannot be overstated. Their years of dedication, their ability to create a home filled with love and learning, and their passion for helping young parents succeed make them truly remarkable. Their story is one of hope, compassion, and the power of family.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Council’s Cabinet Member for Foster East Midlands praised Ruth and Phil’s dedication, stating,

Their commitment to fostering is truly inspiring. Their specialist skills in parent and child placements provide invaluable support to local authorities, helping vulnerable families stay together. They’ve changed countless lives, offering stability, love, and guidance to children and young parents in need.

Right now, there is an urgent need for local authority foster carers. Across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire, over 3,300 children are in care, but only half find foster homes. More carers are needed for children of all ages, especially for siblings, teenagers, children with special need and parent and child.

Foster for East Midlands Councils, is a regional fostering hub which was launched in collaboration with four local councils in May 2024 to enhance recruitment and support for foster carers. This dedicated team guides prospective carers through every step of the process from enquiry to application. Once approved the support network of the councils provides 24/7 support and comprehensive training ensuring carers are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of children in their care.

For more information, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, attend a fostering information event, or call us at 0303 3132 950.

Upcoming Foster for East Midlands Councils information events:

Register on the event webpage.

  • ONLINE - Wednesday 2 April,30pm to 7.30pm, join our zoom call.
  • IN PERSON Wednesday 9 April, 6pm to 7pm, Tesco Bulwell, NottinghamNG6 8EQ,
  • ONLINE Tuesday 15 April,12pm to 1pm, join our zoom call.
  • IN PERSON Wednesday 23 April, 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Buxton Methodist Church, Chapel Street, BuxtonSK17 6HX
  • IN PERSON Thursday 8 May, 5pm to 6pm, Newark Library, Beaumond Gardens, Newark-On-Trent, Nottinghamshire NG24 1UW