The Church of England has apologised for its role in historical adoption practices, particularly in mother and baby homes.
Mothers and adoptees who came into contact with these homes have described the profound and lasting impact of these experiences. Published alongside new research into these homes, the Church of England apology recognises the impact on people affected and sets out the Church’s commitment to listening, learning and responding with honesty and compassion.
The Archbishop of Canterbury issued the apology on behalf of the Church of England, which can be read here.
In the Diocese of Worcester we are aware of a number of mother and baby homes which were run by the diocesan council for moral welfare and are keen to understand the lived experience of those who came into contact with these.
The Bishop of Worcester, Hugh Nelson said:
“We have very few records from the time that these mother and baby homes were open and therefore very little understanding of whether the level of care within them fell short of that which we would expect. I am keen to hear from anyone who was involved with the homes at the time to understand their experiences and the role that the Church may have played in these.
“In a society which often valued secrecy and respectability over compassion and care, we know that for many mothers, children, fathers and wider families affected by practices in church-run care homes, the impact has been lifelong. We need to hear these testimonies and offer apologies to those who we let down at that time.”
Anyone with lived experience of a mother and baby home in the Diocese is encouraged to contact us at safeguardingadvice@cofe-worcester.org.uk or 01905 732800.
The Church of England is also signposting to a number of specialist organisations who can support those affected by historical adoption processes:
National PAC-UK Advice Line
The National PAC-UK Advice Line provides independent, confidential advice and information for people affected by adoption, special guardianship and other forms of permanent care. The service is staffed by qualified and experienced PAC-UK counsellors and social workers with specialist expertise in these areas.
- Website: www.family-action.org.uk/pac-uk
- Email: advice@pac-uk.org
- Phone: 0300 1800 090
FamilyConnect Advice Line
Delivered by Family Action's adoption support agency PAC-UK, FamilyConnect provides information, support and guidance on tracing and reconnecting with family members, the services available, and whether you may be eligible for funding.
- Website: www.familyconnect.org.uk
- Email: familyconnect@pac-uk.org
- Phone: 0300 1800 205 Confidential
Adoption UK
Practical suggestions, information and encouragement with signposting to specialist help.
- Website: www.adoptionuk.org/information-and-support-service
- Information and support service: 0300 666 0006
- Email: informationsupport@adoptionuk.org.uk
Safe Spaces
Support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church
- Website: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk
- Helpline: 0300 303 1056
