Children's care home manager accused of long-term abuse, court hears

Jurors heard that staff at Skircoat Lodge in Halifax were alleged to have run a 'regime of fear' for almost 20 years and that two former employees, Malcom Phillips and Linda Brunning, are facing related proceedings at Bradford Crown Court.

Jurors at Bradford Crown Court were told that staff at Skircoat Lodge care home in Halifax were alleged to have run a 'regime of fear' over nearly 20 years. The case involves two former employees: Malcom Phillips, 92, and Linda Brunning, 66, who are accused of mistreatment of children placed at the home. Former workers gave statements describing intimidation and physical mistreatment of residents while they were there. Prosecutors say the alleged abuse went largely unreported for many years despite the home's outward legitimacy. Known details: - The allegations cover a period reported as between 1976 and 1994 and concern multiple children placed at the home. - Malcom Phillips is accused of offences against six victims; he has been deemed unfit to stand trial and a trial of facts is taking place. - Linda Brunning is on trial at Bradford Crown Court and faces charges including indecent assault and allegations of assisting offences. - Former staff statements read to jurors describe intimidation and physical mistreatment of residents during the period in question. Summary: The reports describe long-running alleged mistreatment at a care home and have led to separate legal proceedings for the two former staff members. Proceedings are under way at Bradford Crown Court, with a trial for Ms Brunning and a trial of facts for Mr Phillips as the next court stages.