Ruth French is an award-winning social care leader, consultant and non-executive director with more than 25 years’ experience spanning adult social care, public policy and organisational transformation. She is the founder of French & Co Care Consulting and previously led Stow Healthcare Group, where she oversaw the successful acquisition and turnaround of eight care homes across East Anglia. Under her leadership, the organisation achieved multiple sector awards and four homes secured the Care Quality Commission’s highest Outstanding rating.
A recognised expert in quality improvement, regulatory compliance, governance and workforce development, Ruth supports care providers to strengthen operational performance, improve resident outcomes and achieve sustainable growth. She is a respected voice within the social care sector, regularly contributing to industry publications, webinars, conferences and media discussions on issues including quality, innovation, recruitment and regulation.
Alongside her consultancy work, Ruth serves as a Non-Executive Director of Elizabeth Finn Homes and The Outstanding Society CIC, providing strategic oversight, constructive challenge and sector leadership. She contributes to national initiatives aimed at improving care quality and professional development across adult social care.
Prior to entering the care sector, Ruth spent almost a decade in the UK Civil Service. She led policy and operational programmes across business, trade, energy and climate portfolios, including roles within the Cabinet Office and Business Department. Her career combines public service values, commercial acumen and a longstanding commitment to improving outcomes for people and communities.
I’m in it because I believe that every person deserves care that enhances their life and gives them a reason to get up each morning. Throughout my career in social care, I have seen the extraordinary difference that compassionate, well-led services can make to individuals, families and communities. From turning around struggling care homes and achieving Outstanding ratings to supporting providers across the sector, I have been driven by a passion for helping people receive the very best care. As a Championing Social Care Ambassador, I want to share the positive stories, challenge outdated perceptions, and encourage more people to see social care as the rewarding, skilled and life-changing profession that it is.
