London, 1950: Vera Drake lives with her husband Stan and their grown-up children, Sid and Ethel. They are not rich, but they are a happy, close-knit family. Vera cleans houses, Stan is a mechanic in his brother's garage, Sid works as a tailor and Ethel works in a factory testing light bulbs. But selfless Vera has a sideline which she keeps secret from all those around her.

Without accepting payment, she helps young women to end unwanted pregnancies. When one of these girls is rushed to hospital following an abortion, the police investigation leads to Vera and her world comes crashing in on her...

Nominated for 3 Oscars including Best Director (Mike Leigh) and Best Actress (Imedla Staunton) and 11 BAFTAs.