Inquest Hears Sister’s Account of Teacher Harassment Before Teen’s Death

The sister of a 14-year-old girl who died by suicide has stated that her sibling was “picked on by teachers” at school. Molly Evans, currently 19, was 12 years old when her sister, Megan Evans, was discovered deceased at their residence in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire. Molly specifically mentioned a teacher who, at the time, held responsibility for behavioural management at Milford Haven School, asserting that Megan “she was always getting shouted at by him”. Furthermore, it is alleged that Megan experienced bullying from other students and young individuals on social media platforms. During the inquest, Molly testified that the teacher was “always near”. She added, “Looking back, I find that pretty weird.” The inquest was informed that on one occasion, Megan came home in tears “because [the teacher] said she looked like a stripper,” a comment made in reference to her non-compliant school uniform. Molly informed the inquest that she did not perceive this as unusual at the time. She stated, “I didn’t connect the dots whatsoever.” She further explained, “At the time I was traumatised.” Molly, who shared a room with her sister, recounted: “In the middle of the night I would constantly wake up to her phone buzzing.” She also mentioned being aware that Megan was receiving unpleasant messages online but maintained privacy regarding these issues. “She never let anybody see,” Molly stated. Molly recounted that on the evening of 7 February 2017, her parents had traveled to Cardiff, leaving Megan, then 14, at home with three of her siblings. Testimony was also heard by the inquest from a former assistant head teacher, who was responsible for wellbeing at the time, stating that anti-bullying systems were operational. Emma Kedward specified that established practices included an online “bully button” and assemblies focused on anti-bullying and online safety. Ms Kedward further stated that she was “satisfied” that all Welsh government guidelines concerning bullying and wellbeing had been put into practice at the school. The inquest was informed that restorative practice had been conducted involving Megan and other year 8 girls due to “social media issues.” Ms Kedward explained that both pupils and staff were encouraged to utilize these practices within the school, and that incidents requiring restorative practice were followed up, though “not always recorded,” as “it depended on the member of staff.” It remained unclear whether the specific incident involving Megan received follow-up action from staff. The inquest is ongoing.