Historical Adoption Practices
This page includes references to historical adoption practices, including the separation of mothers and babies, stigma, and experiences of trauma and lasting emotional harm. Details of support services may be found at churchofengland.org/historical-adoption
Historical Adoption Practices: Church of England Apology
On Thursday 18 June, 2026, the Church of England issued an apology for its role in historical adoption practices in mother and baby homes in the post-war decades and for the hurt and trauma caused. 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. Click below to read the apology in full:
Church of England Apology - Historical Adoption Practices
Historical Adoption Practices: Research into affiliated Church of England Mother and Baby Homes 1949 - 1976
There may be people who have been affected and who wish to reach out for support. A full list of national support structures can be accessed at churchofengland.org/historical-adoption or diocesan support structures are listed below.
St Monica's Maternity Home, Kendal
In September 2023, the Diocese of Carlisle was made aware of allegations of abuse and neglect at the former St Monica's maternity home in Kendal, which closed in 1970.
We acknowledge with deep regret the accusations and it is a matter of shame that some mothers and babies were not afforded the appropriate care. We are truly sorry.
We have worked hard to draw alongside those with lived experience of the home - directly or indirectly - and remain committed to providing support and agency to all those people who come forward. If you have been affected there are local Diocesan contacts available to support you as per the details below.
St Monica's - Diocesan Contacts
Head of Safeguarding & Diocesan Safeguarding Officer
Joanna Van Lachterop
Joanna has responsibility for ensuring that safeguarding action is taken within the diocese and supports victims & survivors. She will provide support to ensure the voices of those impacted by St Monica’s are heard and signpost people to the appropriate services for them.
T: 07458 016884
E:
safeguarding.adviser@carlislediocese.org.uk
Bishop's Chaplain to the Bishop of Carlisle and the Bishop of Penrith
Ali Ng
Ali works closely with the rest of the Bishop’s House Staff. She is supporting those people who are requesting access to St Monica's records.
P: Bishop's House, Ambleside Road, Keswick, CA12 4DD.
T: 017687 73430
E: bishopschaplain@carlislediocese.org.uk
Prayers
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.