Retired foster carers Christopher and Denise Mitchell have been presented with a British Citizen Award at the Palace of Westminster.
They received the coveted Medal of Honour for Services to Community after being nominated for their years of outstanding service to supporting children across Derbyshire.
The couple, who fostered for Derbyshire County Council for 14 years, are a shining example of the impact foster carers can have on their local community. Derbyshire County Council is now part of Foster for East Midlands Councils, along with Derby City Council, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council.
Over 40 years ago, Christopher and Denise welcomed the first of their three adopted children, who all have Down’s syndrome, into their family with their two young sons.
Three years later, they adopted their second daughter, aged nine months, and 24 years ago their family was completed with the adoption of their third son, aged two.
Then the couple, who are both now 70, decided that fostering would be a perfect way to continue supporting more children into new families.
Over the next 14 years, they provided a nurturing and safe home for 12 vulnerable newborn babies, many who went to live with them straight from hospital.
Many had complex medical needs requiring specialist care during the most fragile weeks and months of their lives.
Denise and Chris, who retired as foster carers in 2021, said:
It has just been the most rewarding experience. All the children gave us so much more than we gave them.
The couple have stayed in touch with all of the children they cared for and supported to find loving homes.
Denise said:
It’s like having loads of grandchildren.
It has been so lovely to watch them grow up, thrive with their families and be happy.
The couple were nominated for the award by their supervising social worker and said the ‘amazing’ support they received from her throughout their 14 years was essential to be able to carry out their fostering role.
And while the modest couple say they are slightly embarrassed by all the attention, they also want to share their story to encourage others to come forward to provide a loving home for children when they need it most.
Christopher, a retired social worker, said:
We know how hard it is to recruit foster carers and there are so many children needing a loving family. Our main aim is to encourage other people to consider fostering.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands, said:
Huge congratulations to Christopher and Denise on this well-deserved award. Their journey is truly inspiring, and her reflection on how, through their support, their foster children, and their children have thrived and kept contact is very powerful.
I hope their story moves others to consider opening their hearts and homes to children when they need it most. If you're ready to take that step, Foster for East Midlands Councils is here to support you through your journey every step of the way.
Anyone interested in fostering can contact Foster for East Midlands Councils on 03033 132 950, email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk or visit Foster for East Midlands Councils web page.