Church of England to apologise for role in historical forced adoption

Church of England to Apologize for Historical Forced Adoptions

The BBC has learned that the Church of England is preparing an apology for its involvement in historical forced adoptions. These practices occurred over three decades following World War Two, during which thousands of infants were separated from their mothers due to their unmarried status. The Church operated approximately 100 mother and baby homes across England, effectively isolating women who were pregnant outside of marriage from public scrutiny.

Personal Accounts of Harsh Conditions

Jan Doyle, one of the affected women, recounted her experience at a Kent-based home. She described the “harsh” environment, recalling how she had to crawl on her hands and knees to clean floors while pregnant. “I think I was on my hands and knees the day before my son was born,” she said. Her baby, David, was taken shortly after birth. The pair reunited after 63 years, now maintaining regular contact.

Historical Context and Institutional Role

The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) investigated the issue after the BBC highlighted it in 2021. Their findings revealed that around 185,000 children were impacted by forced adoptions between 1949 and 1976. While some mothers were placed in Church of England homes, others were part of facilities managed by different religious and welfare organizations.

Apology and Its Significance

The Church’s draft apology, shared with the BBC, acknowledges the “lifelong impact” of these experiences. It states, “We are deeply sorry for the pain and trauma carried by many women and children in Church-affiliated mother and baby homes.” Dr. Michael Lambert, a researcher from Lancaster University, emphasized that such an apology could shift perceptions from “sin and shame” to recognition of systematic harm.

Broader Institutional Apologies

This will mark the Church of England as the latest institution to address its role in forced adoptions. In 2016, the Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, apologized for the “hurt caused” by Catholic adoption agencies. Earlier this year, Scottish and Welsh governments also issued formal apologies. The UK government, however, has not yet acknowledged its part in the process.

Government’s Role and Pending Action

Children and Families Minister Josh MacAlister testified before the Education Select Committee, admitting the state “had a role” in these adoptions. He stated that the situation cannot be reduced to societal actions alone, and a “comprehensive” apology is “urgent.” The BBC is seeking government comment on the matter. While some applaud the Church’s gesture, Jan Doyle remains skeptical, insisting the apology must be “heartfelt” and “credible” to truly resonate.