A trial has begun into harrowing allegations that a care home manager in West Yorkshire sexually abused vulnerable children over a period of almost two decades, using his position of power to isolate and exploit them.
Unfettered Access to the Vulnerable
The case, being heard at Bradford Crown Court, centres on the alleged actions of Malcolm Phillips, 92, and his former assistant, Linda Brunning, 66. Phillips was the manager of Skircoat Lodge, a residential home in Halifax for children subject to care orders, from its opening in 1976 until 1994.
Prosecutor Michelle Colborne KC told the jury that the children placed at the home were profoundly vulnerable. Many had already suffered physical or sexual abuse, while others were described as "simply unwanted, marked as troublemakers in the system."
Phillips, who lived in a flat connected to the girls' bedrooms, is accused of having "unfettered access" to the children. The court heard how he allegedly entered girls' bedrooms at night to indecently assault them.
A System of Manipulation and Control
The prosecution outlined a calculated pattern of abuse. Colborne stated that the defendants, with full access to the children's files, "chose them carefully", targeting those they believed could be manipulated and who would not be believed.
"They told them no one cared about them, they told them no one would believe them," Colborne said. The pair allegedly used threats, such as withholding pocket money or cancelling family visits, to ensure silence. Children who tried to run away were returned by police and branded as troublemakers.
Brunning is accused of being a "large and domineering woman who took pleasure in humiliating children" and of actively facilitating Phillips's alleged assaults. She is also charged with indecently assaulting one boy herself.
Separate Legal Proceedings for the Accused
The legal process is proceeding on two tracks. A standard trial is being held for Linda Brunning, who denies the charges against her. For Malcolm Phillips, who has been deemed unfit to stand trial, a "trial of facts" is underway. This hearing will determine whether he committed the alleged acts, without making a finding of criminal guilt.
Phillips faces a total of 12 charges, including counts of indecent assault, indecency with a child, buggery, and rape. Brunning is charged with five offences, including indecent assault and aiding and abetting serious sexual crimes.
The trial, which opened on Monday, continues at Bradford Crown Court.
