A couple who have made a difference to the lives of almost 80 children through 30 years of fostering have been honoured for their “tireless dedication” as more people are encouraged to open their homes to children in need.

Ruth and Andy Ive, from Burton-in-Lonsdale, began fostering in 1995 and say despite the challenges, they have never felt like giving up.

“In the early days children were moved more frequently, sadly,” said Ruth. “We quickly came to the realisation that it was better for children to stay in one place and so we've tried to offer long-term fostering.

“There have been challenges over the years as well as joys and triumphs. I have never felt like giving up, three of our long-term children have become part of our family. One of the brothers has recently had a baby with his girlfriend which is wonderful news and we're very much seen as the grandparents.”

She added: “We went into fostering saying we didn't want to look after teenagers or disabled children - guess what, most of our children have been teenagers or had disabilities.

“I would suggest to anyone thinking of becoming a foster carer to consider sleepovers first – not only is it really needed but it gives the carers time in between visits to think and reflect about how things went and if there are any behaviours that they need support in understanding and ways of responding to.”

The Ives were among 70 foster carers honoured at Fostering North Yorkshire’s annual conference at Carlton Lodge in Thirsk. Dozens of children from foster families also took part, enjoying activities like archery, paddleboarding, arts and crafts and team games.

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We currently support 518 looked-after children and are encouraging more people to consider fostering.

Our executive member for children and families, Cllr Janet Sanderson, said: “It’s a privilege to honour the incredible commitment and compassion of our foster carers. Their tireless dedication has transformed the lives of so many children and this event is a fitting tribute to their unwavering support and love.

“Our foster carers provide much more than just a safe place to say. They offer stability, love and hope and guide our children through the most difficult of times. And we’re always looking for more people to join our growing fostering family.”

Our assistant director for children and families, Mel Hutchinson, said there are many flexible options for people interested in fostering - from long-term placements to regular sleepovers - with full training, support and financial allowances available.

A drop-in event for anyone interested in fostering will take place on Tuesday 29 July at the Ryedale Show at Duncombe Park, near Helmsley.

There is no upper age limit for being a foster carer and you can be single or in a relationship, working, retired - our foster carers come from all sorts of backgrounds.

Read more about fostering.