LCC Broadcast News Room

Gordon Brown is set to apologise for Britain's role in sending more than 130,000 children to former colonies where they suffered abuse.

Poor children were sent away to Australia and Canada in the 1920 to the 60's, as part of the Child Migrant's programme for a "better life."

Taken from families, many of the children sent away suffered physical and sexual abuse.  Some were also told their parents were dead.

Mr Brown told GMTV

"I have to apologise on behalf of a policy that was misguided and it happened right up until the 1960s."

His apology hasn't gone unnoticed by Australian MP Steve Irons.

"The abuse suffered will never be forgotten by the individuals concerned. However it is an important part of the healing process for victims to finally hear that government and society believes them and is sorry."

The Prime Minster is the first British PM to apologise. Australia has already made an apology - you can watch it by clicking the video link on the right.

You can also see the original report into the abuse here.

If you or anyone you know suffered as a result of this programme, these organisations offer support.

The Child Migrants Trust - UK
28a Musters Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7PL
0115 982 2811 (tel)
0115 981 7168 (fax)

The Child Migrants Trust - Melbourne, Australia
00 613 9347 7404

The Child Migrants Trust - Perth, Australia
00 618 9386 3605

The International Association of Former Child Migrants and their Families (IAFCM&F)
O0 618 9457 5241 - Perth, Australia
00 613 9347 7403 - Melbourne, Australia

Were you a migrant? How did it affect you?  If you'd like to share your experiences you can use the form below.