Kindhearted foster carers Jean and Rodney awarded MBEs

Husband and wife Rodney and Jean Hayley were awarded MBEs in the New Year Honours List for their remarkable work as foster parents - the first couple to ever receive the gong together.

Devoted Jean (63) and Rodney (73) - known as Tim to his friends - have been fostering for 16 years and in that time have given a home to 63 children.

As well as their massive foster family, the kindhearted pair - who live at Cambourne Park - have three offspring of their own and six grandchildren.

Speaking to the Times on Thursday morning, Jean said: "We are obviously very proud.

"We knew we had been nominated but we only found out we had received our MBEs when a radio station called to congratulate us.

"We didn't think we had a chance of getting it.

"We are just doing something we both love.

"I get great pleasure doing what we do and helping a family that's maybe going through a difficult time.

"It may be difficult to let them go but it's lovely to see them return home and that's what it's all about.

"That's where their place is.

"Perhaps their parents just needed a little help getting them back together."

Jean said they decided to foster when their own children had grown up and the couple 'had a spare room going'.

Jean retired two years ago having previously worked at a daycare centre while Rodney worked with the Army Cadet force.

They currently have two children staying at their home and will welcome another two this week.

Jean and Rodney are also taking part in a new mother and baby programme which involves them taking in mums and their newborn babies.

The initiative is aimed at preventing the separation of mother and child while at the same time ensuring both receive the care and support they require.

Jean said she hoped others would come forward and offer to act as foster parents.

"I absolutely love it and I am very attached to the children who come through," she said.

"Hopefully the coverage we have received in recent days will highlight the work carers do and encourage others."

Jean - who is originally from Cosgrave Street in Belfast - said many of the youngsters call her granny and often keep in touch years later.

One of those who stayed with the Hayleys spent Christmas with their former foster parents - along with their partner and child.

A spokesperson for the Northern Trust said: "We are delighted for Tim and Jean.

"This honour is a worthy recognition of their contribution to the care of children over the past 16 years.

"They have made a significant difference to the lives of more than 60 children during that time and were rightly recognised as Foster Carers of the Year in 2008.

"Congratulations to both of them."

North Antrim DUP MLA Mervyn Storey also congratulated the couple.

He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to extend my congratulations to Mr and Mrs Hayley for their services to children and families as foster carers.

“This is indeed a well deserved honour, as Mr and Mrs Hayley have over the last 16 years fostered over 60 children.

“A remarkable achievement. It is a recognition of their love, devotion and dedication and is a great honour to both of them.”