10 Accepted

Evidence shows that government policy decisions, funding arrangements and legislative frameworks shaped the environment in...

Conclusion
Evidence shows that government policy decisions, funding arrangements and legislative frameworks shaped the environment in which unmarried mothers were routinely denied any meaningful choice in whether or not they could keep their children and were often shamed and coerced into submitting to have their children put up for adoption. (Conclusion, Paragraph 38) 29
Government Response Summary
The government accepts the conclusion, stating their apology recognised the state's role in enabling harmful practices through funding and oversight, committing to reflect this acknowledgement in the public record and future support delivery.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
ACCEPT The Government’s apology recognised the role of the state in enabling the systems and practices in which harm occurred including through funding and oversight, and acknowledged that the state did not do enough to prevent these practices. The Government is committed to ensuring that this acknowledgement is reflected in both the public record and in how support is delivered going forward.
Addressee Bodies
Department for Education
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 27 Mar 2026