Shatin Babies' / Children's Home 沙田育嬰院 [1953-1966]

Missionary Mildred Dibden returned to Hong Kong in 1951, supporting herself with English lessons before receiving funds to open a new Babies’ Home. Joined by Mrs Chan, she began caring for abandoned infants without formal backing, relying on donations and community support. 

In 1953, the operation moved to Shatin with government assistance, becoming Shatin Babies’ Home. Volunteers helped transform the Old Police Station into a suitable residence, and support grew from local and overseas groups.

By 1956, the home cared for 45 children with a dedicated staff, and plans led to a kindergarten and expanded facilities. The school opened in 1957; by 1960, there were 76 children and new staff from England enhanced operations. Numbers exceeded 100, prompting further help. In 1963, the facility was renamed Shatin Children’s Home. With evolving welfare laws, all children under ten were adopted out to Christian homes abroad.

Valerie Conibear and Wendy Blackmur later founded a home for special needs children in 1965 after relevant training. The Shatin site then became High Rock House Children’s Home and School, managed by Frances Hollingsworth with Miss Dibden among the team. Near retirement at age 60, Miss Dibden secured permission to take 21 girls needing secondary education to England in 1966. Administration of the Shatin premises was passed to Christian Mission to Many Lands, continuing its legacy in child welfare and education.

The Shatin Babies’ Home

Superintendent and Mother:  Miss Mildred Dibden

Assistants:  Valerie Conibear, Wendy Blackmur 

Matrons: Mrs Chan, Mrs Yan

Bible woman:  Esther Leung (who also helped at Fanling)

Hon. Treasurer, H.K: Miss Ruth Whitehead, Mr Leslie C Millington (after 1964)

Hon. Treasurer U.K:  Miss Patricia Best

Hon. Medical Advisors:  Dr. P K Jenkins,   Dr. D V Rees

Hon. Auditors: Martin & Co. Chartered Accountants

Advisory Friends of the Family: 

Mrs Lechmere Clift

Archdeacon & Mrs Donnithorne

Mr & Mrs David Morken

Mr Li Tsun Kai.

For history of the site see here.

Sources:

The Yip Family of Amah Rock by Jill Doggett

Secret Riches by Linda Ball

Let My Heart Be Broken by Richard Gehman

Shatin Babies’ Home newsletters 1955-66