What was going on behind closed doors at the BPAS abortion centre in Leamington Spa?

Last week I heard the fantastic news that BPAS abortion facility in Leamington Spa had closed. This is music to pro-lifers' ears.

I'm so glad that abortions won't be performed there any more and I give thanks to the small but dedicated 40 Days for Life team who have faithfully run 7 campaigns outside this building despite receiving very little support.

It's not clear why this facility closed (let's hope it doesn't re-open again as Marie Stopes!). Some say the contract wasn't renewed and staff were made redundant but there seems no obvious explanation why ... prayer maybe? Sadly though, I doubt it was from lack of 'clients' as even recent feedback posted on the website from women who've had abortions there repeatedly talk about how they felt they were part of a 'conveyer belt' indicating that business was no problem.

Further comments show that perhaps quantity championed over 'quality'

"I was sent home after 15-20 mins when you are supposed to stay for 2hrs ... I had to have the termination re-performed because they hadn't got it all out."

And even those who gave their experience a 5 star rating appear to have felt rushed as they describe things seeming:

"Like a meat market, everyone's on a conveyer belt & they can't wait to get you in and out."

And from another:

"I think more help is needed with regards aftercare/counselling etc. all the staff seem to think you will be fine but not always the case."

My experience

This all brings back some rather sad memories for me because a few years ago I was inside this abortion clinic, not seeking an abortion but undercover to try and experience something of what goes on there. Here's what I learnt from that day:

Firstly I learnt how easy it is to book an appointment. You don't need to see a GP first as many think, I simply phoned up, gave my personal details, was asked what stage of the pregnancy I was at and a consultation was booked.

When I arrived I filled out a health questionnaire, was asked why I wanted an abortion, and was it my choice? I was weighed and my height was measured (still not sure why) and that was it. Obviously they intended to test I was pregnant but there were no other questions. Even a reasonably seasoned pro-lifer like myself was surprised at the lack of counselling or should I say 'at its absence'.

"Empty and hopeless"

In the waiting room there was a TV blaring out distracting programmes. I presumed this helped prevent women from having reflective thinking time. I was shocked at how busy it was. I can't think of a suitable word to describe the atmosphere, all I can say is that it made me feel depressed and I had to get out. As I left I walked down the long drive of this facility, there seemed to be a lot of women/girls just standing around or sitting on the ground looking empty and hopeless.

Whether they were waiting for taxis or just trying to come to terms with things I don't know but there was something haunting about it. I regularly counsel women outside abortion clinics but on this day I honestly felt I just needed to get away, as though the evil of what went on here was trying to cling to me.

March for Life this Saturday

Maybe we shouldn't over analyse why this place has now closed but just be grateful that women keep changing their minds right on the doorsteps (or even the operating tables) of these death camps and one by one by one they keep on closing.

So imagine what effect a huge public witness can have where we and unite together in the centre of one of our most prominent cities, the one where BPAS first started its ugly work. Imagine no longer - come to March for Life UK on Sat 14th May and be part of the change.

Protesters on the day

In the city centre from 11am we will be having a busy pro-life festival with various pro-life market stalls including our own brand of pro-life merchandise which has never been sold before, the Mercy Bus, a new pro-life exhibit, food, face-painting ... the list goes on!

We have heard of a pro-abortion group who are creating a protest on the day to the March for Life UK. Remember three bishops will be with us - let's ensure they get some real support! Don't underestimate the pressures on them to shy away from public witness especially when protesters are present - they're going to need your encouragement and prayer.

Life over death

We will be having great talks from Ryan Bomberger and Stephanie Gray. Of course from Victoria Square we start our victory parade of life triumphing over death - it seems the square has been named victorious for us.

Even now you can be helping by encouraging friends, family and fellow parishioners to keep the day free. You could help us spread the word on social media - start by sharing this blog; 'like' our Facebook page; connect with us on Twitter.

This post first appeared on the March for Life UK blog, and is republished here with their permission.

SPUC is running two coaches from London to the March for Life on Saturday, and there are other coaches going from around the country. Click here to find out more details.