Historical Adoption Practices: Response Following National Apology by the Church of England
The Church of England has today apologised for its role in historical adoption practices, particularly in mother and baby homes. Bishop David has welcomed and endorsed the apology from the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally.
Please note: The following includes references to adoption practices,
including the separation of mothers and babies, stigma, and experiences of trauma
and lasting emotional harm. Details of support services are also included below.
The Church of England has today apologised for its role in historical adoption practices, particularly in mother and baby homes. Mothers and adoptees who came into contact with these homes have described the profound and lasting impact of these experiences. Published alongside new research into these homes, the apology recognises the impact on people affected and sets out the Church’s commitment to listening, learning and responding with honesty and compassion.
In a statement of support, the Rt Revd Dr David Walker, Bishop of Manchester said:
“I welcome today’s apology for the Church of England’s involvement in historical adoption practices connected to mother and baby homes. This is an important and meaningful step towards recognising, validating, and giving voice to the lived experiences of those affected.
“The research published today presents a complex and varied picture. While some homes offered care and support, many institutions fell short of the compassion and dignity we would expect to see within a Christian community. For many who were affected, these experiences have been profoundly painful and have had a lasting and life-long impact. I am truly sorry for the pain and trauma that has been caused.
“I recognise that each person’s experience of adoption is unique, and I am mindful that today’s news will be felt in deeply significant ways by individuals and families touched by this. As a Church, our commitment now is to listen, learn, and respond with compassion. I would encourage anyone affected by these issues to seek support from the specialist and local support services outlined below.”
Finding Support
If you have been affected by this news or would like to speak to someone in the Church of England, you can contact our safeguarding team who will listen, and where helpful, may link you to additional specialist services, some of which are listed below.
Please email safeguarding@manchester.anglican.org or contact our reception on 0161 828 1400 and ask to speak to a member of the Safeguarding Team.
Government Resources
The Adoption Contact Register
The Adoption Contact Register enables adopted adults and birth relatives to register their wish to make contact with one another. Where both parties have registered and consented, the service can help facilitate contact and reconnect family members separated by adoption.
Website: gov.uk/adoption-records/the-adoption-contact-register
Phone: 0300 123 1837
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: 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: familyconnect.org.uk
Email: familyconnect@pac-uk.org
Phone: 0300 1800 205
Adoption UK
Practical suggestions, information and encouragement with signposting to specialist help
Website: adoptionuk.org/information-and-support-service
Information and support service: 0300 666 0006
Email: informationsupport@adoptionuk.org.uk
Safe Spaces provides 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
Homes Identified in Manchester Diocese
The research has identified five homes affiliated with the Church of England, all now closed, in Manchester Diocese.
| Name | Address |
| St. Anne’s Diocesan Maternity Home / also known as Heywood | Simpson Hill, Ryecroft Ave, Green Lane, Heywood |
| St Agnes House | 15 Mauldeth Road, Withington |
| Ennismore Hostel | Half Edge Lane, Eccles then 85 Regent Street, Eccles |
| St. Mary’s Home | 108 Manchester Road, Bury |
| St Agnes House | 54 Upper Brook Street, Manchester |