Told by the mothers and children who were separated from one another, this landmark documentary reveals the full scale of the UK's forced adoption scandal. Over four decades, 250,000 unmarried mothers were forced by the British state to give up their babies. Their first-hand accounts expose the system that tore families apart, its lasting impact, and the fight to uncover the truth that led to a moment of national reckoning.

Stolen Babies (2026)

Between 1949 and 1976 over 250,000 unmarried mothers in the UK had their babies forcibly taken by the state... these are official figures

★ 10/10 September 1, 2026 88 min

Documentary

Director: Kate Schofield

Told by the mothers and children who were separated from one another, this landmark documentary reveals the full scale of the UK's forced adoption scandal. Over four decades, 250,000 unmarried mothers were forced by the British state to give up their babies. Their first-hand accounts expose the system that tore families apart, its lasting impact, and the fight to uncover the truth that led to a moment of national reckoning.

Trailer

Director

Kate Schofield

Cast

Keir Starmer self (archive footage) Marion McMillan self Ann Keen self Joan Chambers self Mark Lloyd-Fox self Judy self Wes Cuell self Marion Scott self Dr. Michael Lambert self