This page includes 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 may be found below or at churchofengland.org/adoption.
The Archbishop of Canterbury has today apologised for The Church of England’s historic involvement in mother and baby homes in the post-war decades and for the hurt and trauma caused.
Responding to today’s apology, Bishop Michael said:
“Today’s apology from The Church of England is a significant moment for all those who experienced pain, trauma and stigma due to historical adoption practices.
“As the Church recognises our past failings and commits to listen, lament and learn, my prayers are with all people affected, including those within Birmingham and the wider region.
“We will continue to strive to be a Church where everyone is treated with love, dignity and compassion.”
The Church of England has also today published new research into mother and baby homes. Due to the historic nature of these homes and lack of available records, we do not currently have a clear picture of the impact locally.
Support services
Anyone affected by this news is encouraged to come forward - we will listen and help you access appropriate support.
Contact The Church of England Birmingham
For pastoral care, we recommend you contact your local vicar. For further specialist advice, we recommend you contact one of the below services.
Government resources
The Adoption Contact Register
Website: https://www.gov.uk/adoption-records/the-adoption-contact-register
Phone: 0300 123 1837
Specialist advice
PAC-UK and the FamilyConnect Advice Line (Information, guidance, support and signposting to further help)
Website: www.familyconnect.org.uk
Advice Line: 0300 1800 205
Email: familyconnect@pac-uk.org
Adoption UK (Practical suggestions, information and encouragement with signposting to
specialist help)
Website: https://www.adoptionuk.org/information-and-support-service
Information and support service: 0300 666 0006
Email: informationsupport@adoptionuk.org.uk
The Church of England
Safe Spaces (Support service, providing a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone
who has been abused by someone in the Church)
Website: https://www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk
Helpline: 0300 303 1056
Additional services
Barnardo’s Adoption Support (Support for adoptees, birth families, and adoptive families)
Website: https://www.barnardos.org.uk/adopt/link-adoption-support-service
Email: link.referralhub@barnardos.org.uk
Samaritans (24/7 emotional support for anyone in distress)
Website: https://www.samaritans.org
Phone: 116 123 10