AN independent review following the sudden death of a Pembroke School pupil who had been placed on the Child Protection Register has found that he was provided with a high level of support and engaged well with staff.

The Extended Child Practice Review Report looked into the role of multi-agency care professionals involved with Derek Brundrett, who was found hanged in the school grounds in December 2013.

Derek – who is not named in the report - was placed on the Child Protection Register in April 2012 before being returned to parental care in September 2013.

The report states that Derek was then given a further period of accommodation with the local authority in November 2013.

Commissioned by the Pembrokeshire Safeguarding Children’s Board, the extended review looked at the history and events in the 21 months leading up to Derek’s death, focusing on the role of care professionals.

It underlined the importance that all agencies should have a comprehensive understanding of the family system and culture.

The review also highlighted that all professionals should share a common understanding of partnership working and have an up-to-date knowledge of the impact of risk taking behaviours.

The report said: “Wherever possible, there should be continuity of Child Protection Conference chairs throughout the Child Protection process.

“It is important that all relevant agencies remain involved throughout the Child Protection process, attending all subsequent Review Conferences in order to enable clarity and consistency.”

Derek’s mother, Kristin Wray, has previously said she feels there were failings in Derek’s care.

“There were so many flaws in Derek’s care. There was a complete lack of support and no referrals when there were things they could have done.”

She told the Western Telegraph that Derek had previously attempted suicide, had a history of self-harming 'which had been overlooked' and attempts to get him help failed because he “did not meet the criteria”.

“There was something wrong with Derek mentally, aside from all the teenage hormones,” said Kristina.

“I put it to the social services that he needed help, again this was overlooked. There are a lot of questions which need to be answered.”

Following Welsh Government guidance, Child Practice Review reports were introduced in January, 2013, replacing the former Serious Case Reviews.

Derek’s inquest is yet to be held.