The Diocese of Carlisle welcomes a report being passed to Cumbria Constabulary in connection with allegations of historical abuse, centring on the former St Monica’s maternity home in Kendal.

Since September 2023, when we were first made aware of accounts of historical abuse, we have worked hard to provide support and agency to those affected, whilst also working alongside partner organisations including Cumbria Constabulary. We continue to offer our heartfelt apologies to those people affected by accounts of malpractice at the home, which closed in 1970. Their testimonies are truly shocking, and our prayers remain with all those affected, directly or indirectly.

We recognise the bravery of Stephen Hindley who has long campaigned on behalf of his wife, Judith, and her baby boy Stephen Holt. Over the last two years we have been able to work closely with Mr Hindley and recognise his vital work in ensuring victims’ and survivors’ voices are not lost.

Whatever records we hold about St Monica’s have been shared in full with research fellow Dr Michael Lambert from the University of Lancaster. We thank him for his detailed work in compiling the report which focuses on baby Stephen’s life and death and which is to be handed to Cumbria Constabulary. We are committed to work with full transparency in support of any subsequent police investigation. Each child and mother at St Monica’s deserved the utmost care. One avoidable death was one too many. Cruel or incompetent practice should have been prevented. Any behaviour which countered this was reprehensible.

There may be other people who have connections to St Monica’s Home and who been affected by issues raised here and need further support. They can contact Head of Safeguarding and Diocesan Safeguarding Officer, Joanna Van Lachterop, on 07458 016884 or at safeguarding.adviser@carlislediocese.org.uk. Alternatively, people may wish to contact Safe Spaces, a free and independent support service for anyone who has been abused by someone in the Church or as a result of their relationship with the Church of England. Safe Spaces can be contacted by telephone on 0300 303 1056 or via email at safespaces@firstlight.org.uk. Meanwhile, there may also be some people who have connections to St Monica’s and have queries about access to Diocesan records held about St Monica’s. Please contact Bishop’s Chaplain Ali Ng at bishopschaplain@carlislediocese.org.uk.

ENDS

For further information contact Dave Roberts, Diocesan Head of Communications, on 07469 153658 or at communications@carlislediocese.org.uk.