This page includes references to historical adoption practices, including the separation of mothers and babies, and experiences of trauma and lasting emotional harm. Details of support services may be found on the Church of England website.
The Diocese of St Albans has today expressed its support for the Church of England’s apology for its role in adoption practices in the post-war decades.
The Church of England has acknowledged the pain, trauma and stigma experienced by many mothers, children and families, including the separation of mothers and babies and the loss of dignity and meaningful choice that some experienced.
Research published alongside the apology presents a complex and partial picture. It shows that, while some sought to provide care and support in difficult circumstances, there were also practices and attitudes that caused harm and fall short of what would be expected of people in the care of a Christian community.
The Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, Bishop of Bedford, speaking on behalf of the Diocese of St Albans, said:
“We support the Church of England’s apology for its role in historical adoption practices.
“We are profoundly sorry for the pain, trauma and stigma experienced by many mothers, children and families, including where mothers and babies were separated and where dignity and choice were not upheld.
“We recognise that these practices took place within a society that often stigmatised mothers, and that the Church was part of that system. While guidance was clear that mothers and babies should be kept together wherever possible, we acknowledge that this was not always the case in practice.
“We are committed to listening to those affected, and to responding with honesty and compassion. We will continue to listen and to learn, and to ensure that what we understand from this history shapes how we serve people today.”
For the full text of the Church of England’s apology, more information and support services, visit www.churchofengland.org/adoption.
