The abuse at Skircoat Lodge, a former care home in West Yorkshire, has been a matter of public concern for many years. Malcolm Phillips, the manager of Skircoat Lodge for nearly two decades, was convicted in 2001 for the repeated sexual abuse of children in his care and sentenced to seven years in prison. Other staff members, including Andrew Shalders, a social worker who was sentenced to 15 years for abusing boys, were also convicted of similar crimes. Another individual, Terence O’Hagan, faced charges but passed away before conviction.

The systemic abuse at Skircoat Lodge occurred over several decades, spanning the 1970s to the 1990s, before the home’s closure in 1995. The full extent of the abuse only emerged after the home was shut down, leaving many victims struggling for justice.

In recent years, survivors have called for inquiries into historical abuse at care homes in Calderdale to be reopened. It has now come to light that Malcolm Phillips is facing fresh charges relating to offences allegedly committed during his tenure at Skircoat Lodge. These charges come as a result of a lengthy investigation by West Yorkshire Police, known as Operation Henway.

Recently, fresh charges were brought against Malcolm Phillips and other staff member following a lengthy investigation by West Yorkshire Police under Operation Henway. The charges relate to further offences allegedly committed during his time at Skircoat Lodge. The case will be heard on Tuesday afternoon at Bradford Magistrates’ Court, and then transferred to the Crown Court

Switalskis, which has represented many survivors of the abuse at Skircoat Lodge, will be present at the hearing. Kieran Chatterton, a specialist abuse solicitor at Switalskis, commented:

"The charges represent another significant step in the pursuit of justice for those who suffered at Skircoat Lodge. We remain dedicated to supporting survivors as they seek accountability for the harm caused to them."

Switalskis encourages anyone who has been affected by the abuse at Skircoat Lodge but has not yet come forward to contact their team. The firm’s nationally recognised abuse department has a wealth of experience in supporting survivors of abuse and understands the importance of providing compassionate and confidential legal assistance.

For further information or to speak to one of our specialist abuse solicitors, please contact Switalskis on kieran.chatterton@switalskis.com or by phone on 01924 882000 .