Bullying death sparks task force

Ben Vodden was a pupil at Tanbridge House School in Horsham

An anti-bullying task force is to be set up following the death of an 11-year-old boy found hanged after he was bullied on a school bus.

West Sussex County Council (WSCC) said it was in response to a request made by the coroner at the inquest into Ben Vodden's death in December.

An open verdict was recorded on Ben, who was found by his father, Paul, in his room in Southwater, near Horsham.

The council said the task force would look at school transport issues.

"I will be asking the task force to produce a series of recommendations as soon as practicable," said Mark Dunn, cabinet member for children's and young people's services.

"The terms of reference for this initiative will include home to school transport, which the coroner asked the authority to examine during his summing up."

He said Ben's parents had been told about the task force and welcomed it.

Anti-bullying cards were given to school children in Years 3 to 10

Mr Vodden and his wife, Caroline, told the inquest in April the bullying began on Ben's second day at Tanbridge House School in Horsham.

Mr Dunn, who was at the inquest as an observer, said robust anti-bullying policies were in force in the county's schools.

But he was anxious to ensure they were well supported in implementing them.

"Bullying is not tolerated in our schools and a great deal of excellent work has been done to combat it," said Mr Dunn.

"However, we must build on the good practice that already exists.

"Recent initiatives include a county-wide anti-bullying card for all pupils with details of who to contact for advice and help.

"However, Ben's tragic death has shown the need for constant vigilance.

"I can assure Ben's parents and, indeed, all parents of children in West Sussex schools that the issues highlighted during the inquest will be fully addressed."