Introduction
On 18 June 2026 the Church of England issued a public apology for its involvement in historical forced adoption practices that affected thousands of mothers and children across the United Kingdom. The apology acknowledged the deep pain, trauma and stigma endured by survivors and their families, and declared that the shame belongs to the institution, not to those who suffered.
Impact and Institutional Response
Archbishop of Canterbury Sarah Mullally emphasized that the impact of forced adoptions has been lifelong for many, noting survivors’ accounts of indignity, loss of maternal bonds, and the harsh conditions they faced in Church‑affiliated homes. She affirmed that the Church is profoundly sorry for the role it played in a “shameful period” of history and highlighted that tens of thousands of mothers and babies were likely placed in more than 200 homes linked to the Church between 1949 and 1976.
The apology was accompanied by a commitment to listen, lament and learn. Bishop Joanne Grenfell described this moment as a “time of reckoning,” pledging a kind, professional and practical response for anyone who contacts the Church seeking support. The Church’s research included meeting minutes, policy papers and annual reports, though many records were incomplete or lost. As a result, dioceses are urged to transfer any remaining adoption records to local archives to aid survivors in locating their histories.
Although the statement did not directly address compensation, the Church indicated that a redress scheme would open by the end of 2026, offering payments up to £660,000 in rare, exceptional cases, alongside therapy and spiritual support. This scheme aligns with broader governmental efforts to provide redress for state‑linked forced adoptions.
Looking Forward
Survivor groups have offered mixed reactions. The Adult Adoptee Movement (AAM) criticised the lack of meaningful consultation, feeling the apology “virtually ignores adoptees.” In contrast, the Movement for an Adoption Apology (MAA) welcomed the statement as a first step toward redemption, urging tangible support. Church leaders have stressed that ongoing dialogue, transparent record‑keeping, and accessible support services are essential to prevent further harm and to honor the experiences of those affected.
By publicly acknowledging the wrongdoing and outlining concrete steps for redress, the Church of England seeks to rebuild trust and demonstrate a commitment to social justice, mental health healing, and religious compassion. The apology serves as a reminder that institutions can evolve, learn from past mistakes, and work collaboratively with survivors to foster lasting reconciliation.