Malcolm Phillips, a children's home manager, has been found to have sexually abused boys and girls in his care over a period of 18 years at Skircoat Lodge Care Home in Halifax. The abuse, described as part of a 'regime of fear', took place between 1976 and 1994, during which Phillips exploited his position and 'unfettered access' to the vulnerable children for his own sexual gratification. The jury heard that his actions affected a total of four girls and two boys, whose lives were severely impacted by these traumatic experiences.

At 93 years old, Phillips was deemed unfit to stand trial, leading to a trial-of-facts being conducted at Bradford Crown Court. This type of trial is designed to establish whether the alleged actions occurred without passing a guilty verdict. Although Phillips could not be found guilty due to his mental state, his assistant, Linda Brunning, was found guilty of indecent assault and of aiding and abetting Phillips in his crimes. This case reveals serious failures in the safeguarding of vulnerable children in care facilities during that time period and highlights the long-lasting impact of such abuses.

The conviction of Brunning brings some measure of accountability to the situation, but the lack of direct justice for Phillips raises questions about the ways in which the legal system addresses cases involving elderly individuals with severe health issues. This case serves as a grave reminder of the responsibilities care home management holds and underscores the importance of vigilance to protect children from abuse.