Both women have had lifelong struggles with their mental health and Kelly says that some of her friends from Skircoat “aren’t around today” after having taken their own lives or through drug use.
“I’ve also been on drugs because the drugs numbed the pain, but I am also in recovery,” she says.
Kelly says she has spent many hours in the past sitting in police stations trying to report the abuse, but says she was turned away.
“The police officers that have dealt with this have been absolutely amazing, I can’t fault them,” she says.
However, despite Kelly’s recent experiences, her initial attempts to bring Phillips to justice floundered.
“When I first went to report this abuse, I went to that police station numerous times and I wasn’t taken seriously,” she explains.
“I’ve been sectioned and I got banned from council offices when I tried reporting the abuse.
“Perpetrators drilled fear into me, but so did systems, and that’s why I’ve waived my anonymity because I’m not scared of them anymore.”
Calderdale Council said it was “deeply sorry” for the harm and suffering caused by Phillips and Brunning.
“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,” a spokesperson added.