Woman jailed for 25 years over abuse at Halifax's Skircoat Lodge Children's Home
A woman has been jailed for 25 years for her role in abuse at a Halifax children’s home.
Linda Brunning, 67 of Sowerby Bridge, appeared at Bradford Crown Court today for sentencing after being found guilty in February of indecently assaulting one teenage boy and helping her boss at Skircoat Lodge Children’s Home seriously sexually abuse another youngster.
Brunning was sentenced to 25 years for her role in the abuse and made subject to the Sex Offenders Register requirements indefinitely.
The judge also made final orders in respect of Malcolm Phillips, 93 and formerly of New Imperial Crescent in 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 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.”