Emotional Support for Victims and Survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses

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On 26 January 2021, a Research Report into Mother and Baby Homes and Magdalene Laundries was published.

Alongside the publication, the Northern Ireland Executive announced that an independent investigation would be co-designed with victims and survivors. A three-person Panel was appointed to work alongside victims and survivors of the institutions and their families, to explore options for an investigation/inquiry. More information on this, including the panel’s Report published on 5 October 2021, can be found here: Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses in Northern Ireland Truth Recovery Strategy.

The Report includes recommendations for an Integrated Truth Investigation (comprising an expert Independent Panel and a statutory Public inquiry). Other recommendations relating to redress, support services and access to records are also included. The NI Executive will now consider the Report and its recommendations.

Co-Design of Support and Services with Victims and Survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses

On 21st June 2021, the Victims and Survivors Service (VSS) was asked by the Department of Health to commence a co-design process to identify support and services needed for victims and survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses in Northern Ireland.

If you have been impacted by any of these institutions and would like to help us design support and services, we would like to hear from you.

You can contact us by:
e-mail: codesign@vssni.org
Tel: 028 9031 1678

All discussions will be treated in the strictest confidence.

You can find more information on what the co-design process will involve here.

Information on the ethical framework in place can be found here

A list of updated FAQs can be accessed here

Details on how to provide us with feedback can be found here

Interim Emotional Support for Victims and Survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses in Northern Ireland

The Victims and Survivors Service (VSS) is available to provide emotional support to victims and survivors impacted by Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses.

This support is available in confidence, and in a safe and therapeutic way.

This is a temporary arrangement until permanent support services are in place.

Please contact us:
Office Hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday | Contact: 028 9031 1678 | support@vssni.org