In the space of just sixty years, 100,000 children were taken from the streets, orphanages workhouses and even their own homes to be resettled in Canada.
And when the Canadian Government called a halt to this migration we continued to send children to Australia a policy which did not finally stop until the 1970s.
“To all those former child migrants and their families, to those here with us today and those across the world, to each and every one, I say we are truly sorry,"
We are sorry that instead of caring for them, this country turned its back. And, we're sorry that the voices of these children were not always heard, their cries for help not always heeded. And we're sorry that it's taken so long for this important day to come and for the full and unconditional apology that is justly deserved. “
Gordon Brown February 24 2010
The Australian Prime Minister has also apologised and the Government of Canada designated 2010 as the Year of the British Home Child.
“Many of the Home Children faced hardships and adversity, but went on to become contributing members of our society. By proclaiming 2010 as the Year of the British Home Child, our Government is taking steps to ensure that their experiences and perseverance are honoured and commemorated.”
Phil McColeman, Member of Parliament for Brant
Come and hear the story today with Chorlton History Group at 1.30 in Chorlton Library
Picture; from a collection of Barnado postcards made available by Lori Oschefski
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