Mother and baby homes admissions in North 2,000 higher than first estimated

Inquiry found 'human rights abuses, degrading treatment, and forced separation of families are recurring and frequent' in evidence from survivors of the homes

Professor Sean O'Connell and Professor Leanne McCormick with copies of the Truth Recovery Independent Panel's final report, which was set up to look into the workings of mother and baby institutions, Magdalene laundries and workhouses in Northern Ireland. Picture: Darren Kidd/PressEye/PA

Tue, 07 Jul, 2026 - 12:30

Claudia Savage

The estimated number of women admitted to mother and baby homes and Magdalene laundries in Northern Ireland is some 2,000 higher than previously thought, a report has found.

The co-chairmen of the Truth Recovery Independent Panel found “human rights abuses, degrading treatment, and forced separation of families are recurring and frequent” in evidence from survivors of the homes.