A Calderdale Council spokesperson said:
“The trial has found that both Malcolm Phillips and Linda Brunning committed horrific offences of abuse of children, entrusted to their care, who were residing at Skircoat Lodge in the 1980s and 1990s. Calderdale Council is deeply sorry for the harm and suffering caused by these individuals, and for the devastating impact this abuse has had on the lives of their victims.
“Since this time, our safeguarding practices have changed beyond recognition. There is a strong partnership, focus and commitment from all key organisations working together in Calderdale, to protect children and young people from harm. We take this responsibility extremely seriously. We work closely with Ofsted, who regularly undertake detailed inspections of our children’s homes, the outcomes of which are in the public domain. We thoroughly check the details of all our staff before they start working for the Council, and our staff provide consistent, compassionate and high quality care within an environment of close oversight, with an empowering culture which puts the experiences of our children first.”