Church of England apologises for role in post-war historical adoption practices

Today, 18 June 2026, the Church of England issued an apology for their role in post-war historical adoption practices.  You can view the full statement and press release here on the Church of England website.

We want to acknowledge the deep pain and lifelong impact experienced by those affected by historic forced adoption in England. We recognise that many mothers, fathers, adopted adults and wider families continue to carry grief, loss and unanswered questions from a time when choices were not as wide as they are today

Adoption Matters now operates as an independent children’s charity and one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies in the country. The practices of the past do not reflect modern practices or the values that guide our work. Modern adoption is built on honesty, transparency, ethical practice and the belief that every individual involved deserves dignity, respect and the right to be heard, with children at the heart of everything we do.

We continue to offer a post adoption support to all adopted adults connected to our agency.