The Church of England has issued a formal apology for its involvement in historical forced adoptions, acknowledging the “pain, trauma and stigma” inflicted on countless individuals. Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally delivered a direct video message to survivors, stating unequivocally: “You have nothing to be ashamed of, the shame is ours.”
Scope of the Apology
The Church believes that tens of thousands of mothers and babies were placed in Church of England-linked homes between 1949 and 1976. While precise numbers are unavailable, Church records indicate that over 200 homes across England and Wales had Church involvement during this period. The apology comes a day after the UK Government confirmed it would also apologise for the state’s role in what Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described as a “shameful period” in the country’s history.
Impact on Survivors
In her statement, Archbishop Mullally highlighted the lifelong impact on families, noting that survivors have spoken of the “indignity” they faced. She acknowledged that many women and girls were forced into menial labour as a form of “correction,” and that prejudices regarding race and disability often shaped their experiences. “The shame you were made to feel was wrong,” she said. “We are deeply ashamed that this happened to people in the care of Christian communities.”
Redress Scheme
While the apology does not directly address compensation, the Church has established a redress scheme expected to open by the end of 2026. This scheme, originally set up for abuse within the Church, could provide financial payments ranging from £5,000 to £660,000 in rare and exceptional circumstances, along with therapy and spiritual support. Eligibility will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and those affected are encouraged to register for updates online.
Reactions from Campaign Groups
The apology has drawn mixed reactions. The Adult Adoptee Movement (AAM) criticised the statement as “an insult to survivors,” claiming there was “no meaningful engagement” with their group and that the apology “virtually ignores adoptees.” In contrast, the Movement for an Adoption Apology (MAA) welcomed the statement but described it as the Church’s “first step on a long road to redemption,” urging “real and tangible support” for those affected.
Historical Context
An estimated 185,000 babies of unmarried mothers were adopted in England and Wales between 1949 and 1976. The Church of England acknowledged that its research into historical records found incomplete documentation, with some records lost or never kept. Bishop Joanne Grenfell, chair of the Church’s working group on historical adoption practice, called this a “time of reckoning” and pledged to ensure survivors receive “the kindest, most professional, practical response.” She added, “We don’t want to do further harm.”
The Church has also committed to ensuring that dioceses no longer hold adoption records, urging them to transfer any remaining records to relevant local archives as soon as possible. This move aligns with Government efforts to improve access to personal records for those affected.
