In a significant move towards reconciliation, the UK government has announced plans to issue a formal apology to individuals affected by historical forced adoptions. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson confirmed that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will provide further details on this long-overdue acknowledgment of a troubling chapter in British history, which saw an estimated 185,000 babies taken from unmarried mothers between 1949 and 1976.
Acknowledging a Troubling Past
During her appearance before the education select committee, Phillipson described the practice of forced adoption as a “shameful period” in the nation’s history. She reassured members of Parliament that those impacted would receive the apology they “so profoundly deserve.” The Education Secretary emphasised the importance of this gesture, stating, “This government will very soon be making a full apology on behalf of the state to all of those affected by historic forced adoption in England.”
This announcement follows a report from the committee advocating for a formal public apology, which they deemed necessary to amend the historical record and alleviate the burdens carried by many mothers and adoptees. In her opening remarks, Phillipson indicated that efforts are being made to engage with survivor groups to ensure that the wording of the apology is thoughtful and inclusive.
Historical Context and Previous Apologies
The practice of forced adoption was rooted in a culture that stigmatised pregnancy outside of marriage, leading to widespread removal of children from their mothers. Many of these women were sent to mother-and-baby homes operated predominantly by religious organisations, where they were pressured into relinquishing their children for adoption.
While England has been slow to formally recognise this injustice, both the Welsh and Scottish governments issued apologies in 2023, and the Catholic Church in England and Wales apologised in 2016. Countries like Ireland and Australia have begun providing financial compensation for similar historical wrongs, highlighting a growing global movement towards acknowledging and rectifying past injustices.
Voices of the Survivors
Campaigners who have dedicated their lives to advocating for the rights of those affected by forced adoption have welcomed the government’s announcement. Sally Ells, co-founder of the Adult Adoptee Movement, expressed hope that the forthcoming apology would lead to meaningful redress, stating, “We’ve asked for dedicated mental health support and improved access to adoption records.”
Diana Defries, chair of the Movement for an Adoption Apology, emphasised the need for a structured apology that takes responsibility for the harm done. “No amount of money will fix what happened to me,” she said, urging for investment in support services rather than mere financial compensation.
Emily Frith, chief executive of Adoption UK, echoed these sentiments, insisting that an apology must be followed by concrete actions. She stated, “Adult adoptees continue to face barriers to accessing therapy, tracing birth relatives and obtaining birth and medical records. The government must now turn words into action.”
A Call for Action
A report by the UK government’s Joint Committee on Human Rights in 2022 had already recommended that ministers issue an apology to unmarried women who were “railroaded” into unwanted adoptions. The previous Conservative administration had expressed regret “on behalf of society” but refrained from making a formal apology, claiming that the state did not actively support the practices involved.
However, the current government’s commitment to delivering a full apology marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey towards justice for those affected. As survivors continue to advocate for their rights, the government faces the challenge of ensuring that this apology translates into meaningful support and policy reforms.
Why it Matters
The impending apology from the UK government signifies more than an acknowledgment of historical wrongs; it represents a crucial step towards healing for countless individuals whose lives have been irrevocably altered by forced adoption practices. By recognising the pain and trauma experienced by mothers and adoptees, the government has an opportunity to pave the way for substantive changes that address the ongoing challenges faced by adult adoptees today. This moment should serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to marginalised voices and ensuring that history does not repeat itself.
