Arabic version: مدير دار رعاية ومساعده مدانان بإساءة طويلة الأمد

Malcolm Phillips, a former manager of the Skircoat Lodge children’s home in Halifax, and his assistant Linda Brunning have been found guilty of sexually abusing children in their care over a span of nearly two decades. The abuse occurred between 1976 and 1994, affecting four girls and two boys. Phillips, now 93, was deemed unfit to stand trial, leading to a trial of facts at Bradford Crown Court.

According to BBC News, the jury determined that Phillips exploited his position of authority to isolate children, using various tactics to maintain control over them. He had unrestricted access to all areas of the home, including the children’s bedrooms, allowing him to carry out his abusive acts without challenge.

Brunning, 66, was found guilty of indecent assault against one boy and of facilitating Phillips’ abuse of another. Described as a “large, domineering woman who took pleasure in physically hurting and humiliating children”, she reportedly manipulated vulnerable children, exploiting their emotional weaknesses to further the abuse.

Victims recounted their traumatic experiences, with one survivor, Kelly Lees, sharing how she was targeted after being instructed to do homework in Phillips’ office. Chris Wild, another former resident, described Skircoat Lodge as a “house of horrors” and expressed concern for the mental health struggles of those affected by the abuse.

The NSPCC commented on the verdict, stating that Phillips and Brunning orchestrated a prolonged campaign of abuse while enabling each other to evade detection. Their actions left many victims traumatized and silenced, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and support for those affected.