Linda Brunning 67

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A former assistant at a Halifax children’s home has been sentenced following her conviction for sexual offences against children in her care, after an extensive investigation by officers into abuse at Skircoat Lodge Children’s Home.  

Linda Brunning, aged 67, of Sowerby Bridge, Calderdale, appeared at Bradford Crown Court today (Monday 8 June) for sentencing after being found guilty in February of one count of indecent assault on a boy and four further offences of aiding and abetting serious sexual abuse carried out by the former manager of the home. 

Brunning was sentenced to 25 years for her role in the abuse, which took place between the 1970s and 1990s.  

She was also made subject to the Sex Offenders Register requirements indefinitely.  

The Judge also made final orders in respect of Malcolm Phillips, aged 93, formerly of Tyseley, Birmingham, who managed Skircoat Lodge Children’s Home during the period of offending.  

Phillips was deemed unfit to stand trial and therefore faced a trial of facts, a legal process which does not result in a criminal conviction or custodial sentence.  

However, a jury concluded that he committed the sexual offences against children in his care.  

At today’s hearing, the Judge submitted an order of Absolute Discharge in relation to Phillips. He was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years, and also the Sex Offender Register requirements for the remainder of his life.

It was reiterated that, while a sentence could not be passed, the findings formally recognised the seriousness and scale of his offending and the harm caused to children.  

Speaking after sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Claire Smith of Calderdale District Police said:  

“Today’s outcome cannot undo the harm suffered by those children at Skircoat Lodge, but it does represent long overdue accountability. The bravery shown by the survivors in coming forward after so many years has been extraordinary, and we hope this brings some measure of acknowledgement and closure.”  

“We would encourage anyone who has suffered child abuse and exploitation to come forward and report it to us. No matter the length of time passed, you will be listened to and believed. There are also support services out there, that are on hand to support you when you are ready, if you don’t wish to contact police straight away.”