Skircoat Lodge – the disappointing outcome that demands further investigation
The sentencing of Malcom Phillips and Linda Brunning at Bradford Crown Court on Monday has understandably attracted a lot of attention and caused a lot of anger.
Linda Brunning, who was a residential social worker at Skircoat Lodge Observation and Assessment Centre for some 16 years, was convicted in February 2026 of indecently assaulting a boy and helping Phillips sexually abuse another boy. She was imprisoned for 25 years.
Malcom Phillips was the manager of the home for 18 years. He had been convicted of sexually abusing a number of young girls at the centre in 2001. However, in the recent criminal case he was found unfit to stand trial. There was however a finding of facts that he had sexually and physically abused another 4 girls and 2 boys at the centre. He was issued with an absolute discharge and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Survivors of abuse at the centre are understandably angry and frustrated that the court were unable to issue a more meaningful punishment against Phillips.
One of my clients gave a statement to the media expressing her frustration that Phillips did not have to attend the hearing or hear the evidence of the survivors of his abuse. However, she also confirmed that the criminal hearing had validated her experience and brought her some relief.
The findings of the court in relation to the extent of abuse at the centre over an extended period of time highlights the need for a public enquiry into abuse at Skircoat Lodge. There appears to have been earlier opportunities to intervene that were missed and there are serious questions about the institutional knowledge and safeguarding failures of Calderdale Council. It would also deliver answers for the survivors of abuse there and ensure that past failures are addressed.
At Jordans Solicitors we continue to act for and support survivors of abuse at the centre and encourage them to come forward and report their abuse. We also support a public enquiry.
Jordans Solicitors - How we can help
Jordans Solicitors are acting on behalf of vulnerable children and young adults whom it is alleged were sexually abused in a number of different types of institutions. We understand how difficult it can be for you to talk about the abuse you suffered during your childhood. That’s why our specially trained child abuse solicitors work closely alongside psychologists and barristers to support you both emotionally and legally.
If you or your child have been affected by anything in this article and would like to speak to one of our team members in confidence, then please do not hesitate to contact us. Our highly skilled abuse team will advice you on the available options for pursuing a civil damages claim.
Please contact the abuse team on If you want to discuss the options that are open to you, please contact our specialist Abuse Team at Jordans Solicitors on 08009555094 or 03303001103 or request a call back.