Bishops’ apology for historical adoption practices

The bishops of Lichfield Diocese have responded to the announcement made by the Church of England today apologising for instances of hurt and trauma caused in care homes in which it was historically involved. The apology, led by the Most Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury, is accompanied by the publication of a report: ‘Historical Adoption Practices.’

The Lichfield Diocese bishops have expressed gratitude for the tenacious research which has brought to light the Church of England’s part in the wider system shaped by attitudes and legislation which stigmatised unmarried mothers and led to the separation of mothers and babies. They have joined in the acknowledgment across the church that such treatment and the attitudes displayed denied to mothers both dignity and choice.

Five bishops, the Rt Revd Dr Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of Lichfield; the Rt Revd Sarah Bullock, Bishop of Shrewsbury; the Rt Revd Matthew Parker, Bishop of Stafford; the Rt Revd Dr Tim Wambunya, Bishop of Wolverhampton and the Rt Revd Paul Thomas, Bishop of Oswestry have pledged listening and support for those affected who wish to come forward. Speaking on the publication of the report they said:

“We pay tribute to the tenacious research that has shed light on the actions and events of the past. It is our prayer that this apology is the beginning of bringing healing and recovery to those affected and to bringing lament for the errors of the past from which we pledge learning more deeply what it means to recognise the image of God in others.

“To anyone affected by this news, the Diocese of Lichfield is here for you. The church today offers you support to the best of our ability. We receive you with care and compassion, with dignity and respect. We will do our utmost to help you find the information you seek, the support you need, the listening ear to whom you can tell your story, however much of it you wish to tell. There are contacts below. We also commit to prayer across the diocese at this time. Our prayer is that if you are affected you will find God an ever-present help in a time of trouble. We commend the prayers below for individual or parish use.”

The research has identified seven mother and baby homes, all now closed, in Lichfield Diocese. There is a list of these below. This is not a comprehensive list of all mother and baby facilities in the geographical area of the diocese.

In its apology the Church of England has acknowledged that while experiences varied, its actions and influence contributed to harm done. While there was a complex system involving families, professionals and the state, the Church recognises its own failings and the significant role it played. Practices and attitudes have changed and while the Church is no longer involved in adoption in this way, it remains committed to transparency, ongoing listening, and ensuring what is learned shapes its actions today.

Finding help or support.

Safeguarding Team

Anyone seeking help can contact our Diocesan Safeguarding Team by phone or email. They will be able to signpost sources of support and pass people on seeking information about adoptions to statutorily regulated services providing this. There is a dedicated email: safeguarding@lichfield.anglican.org and phone number: 01543 306147.

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 www.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 www.familyconnect.org.uk  Email familyconnect@pac-uk.org
Phone 0300 1800 205

Clergy in your parish

You can find which parish you are in using your postcode and www.achurchnearyou.com. That will show contact details for clergy at churches local to you.

Safe Spaces

Safe Spaces provides a confidential, personal and safe space for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church.

Website: www.safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk Helpline: 0300 303 1056

Alternatively, you may wish to contact the National Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@churchofengland.org

Government resources

The Adoption Contact Register

Website: www.gov.uk/adoption-records/the-adoption-contact-register
Phone: 0300 123 1837

Prayers

Below are some prayers which may be shared around the publication of the apology, potentially as part of communication to parishes.
 

Let us pray for all whose lives have suffered rejection, separation, or grief.
Lord, have mercy.

For all who have carried burdens of shame and fear, that they may know the comfort of God’s love:
Lord, have mercy.

For children separated from their mothers, and for all families divided, that God may bring restoration and peace:
Lord, have mercy.

For those whose dignity was denied and whose voices were not heard, that they may be honoured and upheld:
Lord, have mercy.

For all who carry wounds of body, mind, or spirit, that Christ may bring healing and freedom:
Lord, have mercy.

For the hope of new creation, that sorrow may be turned to joy and every tear wiped away:
Lord, have mercy.

Loving God,
you hear the cry of the afflicted and gather the outcast.
Look with mercy on all whose lives 
have suffered rejection, loss, or neglect. 
Bind up the wounds of the broken-hearted,
assure them of your love,
and grant us grace to walk in the way of your Son,
Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Homes identified in research