Keir Starmer expressed the Government’s profound regret for a post-war injustice where numerous unmarried mothers were compelled to give up their children for adoption. The Prime Minister condemned the disgraceful practice of forced adoption as a dark mark on the nation’s past, recognizing the state’s responsibility for causing suffering. An estimated 185,000 babies were forcibly adopted in England and Wales between 1949 and 1976.
During a formal apology to Parliament, the Prime Minister acknowledged that many women were deprived of genuine choice, subjected to shame and unworthiness, while children had their identities and histories stripped away. The harm extended to fathers and extended families, with lasting impacts across generations.
He emphasized that the mistreatment of mothers and families, involving coercion, bullying, and deception, was a systemic issue embedded within various institutions and services without compassion, consent, or dignity. The Government expressed deep remorse to those affected and pledged a £4 million support package over three years to assist victims in accessing adoption records, reuniting with family members, and conducting research on long-term effects.
The Government also committed to collaborating with NHS England to enhance access to appropriate health support, particularly for mental health challenges. Mr. Starmer admitted the Government’s responsibility for enabling these practices and failing to protect vulnerable individuals from harm.
He highlighted the struggles faced by families seeking answers due to lost or inaccessible records, emphasizing the lack of oversight in the systems supported by the Government. Former MP Ann Keen, who was separated from her son through forced adoption, expressed hope that the apology would help release her from the burden of shame.
The Government’s apology, focusing on England, follows similar apologies from Scotland and Wales, while efforts are underway in Northern Ireland to establish a public inquiry into related institutions. Support for those impacted by historical forced adoption practices is available through FamilyConnect, offering confidential assistance, including counseling and record tracing services.
