Peterborough foster carers awarded MBEs in King’s Birthday Honours!

There was fantastic news for Peterborough’s fostering community this month as long-serving foster carers Stephen and Maureen Greene were both awarded MBEs in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 for their outstanding services to foster care.

The couple, who have fostered with Peterborough City Council since 1993, have dedicated more than 30 years to supporting children and young people, helping them overcome challenges and build confidence.

For Stephen and Maureen, fostering has never just been about providing a roof over a child’s head. It has been about creating a home where children feel safe, valued, loved and part of a family.

Reflecting on the honour, Maureen said she hopes the recognition helps bring fostering to the forefront of people’s minds and shines a spotlight on the difference local foster carers make every day. Over the last three decades, the couple have cared for children and young people from a wide range of backgrounds. Many remain in touch today, and the family now proudly describes themselves as foster grandparents to the next generation.

Their impact can be seen in the achievements of the young people they have cared for, with many going on to succeed in education, employment, higher education and the armed forces. Stephen and Maureen are also passionate ambassadors for fostering. Alongside caring for children, they have supported recruitment events, shared their experiences with prospective carers and helped raise awareness of the urgent need for more local foster families.

Stephen has also served as Chair of the Fostering Committee, advocating for foster carers and helping strengthen the fostering community across Peterborough.

Their nomination described their legacy as one of “transformation, advocacy and enduring relationships” creating homes where children feel unconditionally loved, valued and truly part of a family. Congratulations to Stephen and Maureen on this incredible and well-deserved achievement.