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 apology recognises the impact on people affected and sets out the Church’s commitment to listening, learning and responding with honesty and compassion.
- You can read the full apology, report, and find further information on the Church of England’s website.
Please note: The contents of these pages include references to historical adoption practices, including the separation of mothers and babies, stigma, and experiences of trauma and lasting emotional harm. Details of support services are available on the website and immediately below.
Finding support
If you have been affected by this news or would like to speak to someone, a range of options are listed below. This includes specialist agencies and charities, and how to contact the Church of England, including our diocesan safeguarding team, who will listen and help where appropriate.
Government resources
The Adoption Contact Register
The Adoption Contact Register enables adopted adults and birth relatives to register their wish to make contact with one another. Where both parties have registered and consented, the service can help facilitate contact and reconnect family members separated by adoption.
Website: gov.uk/adoption-records/the-adoption-contact-register
Phone: 0300 123 1837
Specialist advice
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: 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: familyconnect.org.uk
Email: familyconnect@pac-uk.org
Phone: 0300 1800 205
Adoption UK
Practical suggestions, information and encouragement with signposting to specialist help.
Website: adoptionuk.org/information-and-support-service
Information and support service. Phone: 0300 666 0006
Email: informationsupport@adoptionuk.org.uk
Additional services
Barnardo’s Adoption Support
Support for adoptees, birth families, and adoptive families
Website: barnardos.org.uk/adopt/link-adoption-support-service
Email: link.referralhub@barnardos.org.uk
Samaritans
24/7 emotional support for anyone in distress
Website: samaritans.org
Phone: 116 123
Church of England support
You can find out your local parish details by visiting A Church Near You.
Safe Spaces provides a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church.
www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk
Helpline: 0300 303 1056
Alternatively, you may wish to contact our diocesan safeguarding team, details of which you can find here. Diocesan Safeguarding Team.
Or the National Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@churchofengland.org.