Ben Leonard was a 16-year-old Explorer Scout from Stockport, Greater Manchester, who tragically died on August 26, 2018, during a Scout trip to North Wales. Here are the key details about his case:
Ben Leonard Accident
1. The Incident: Ben fell approximately 200 feet (60 meters) from a cliff on the Great Orme in Llandudno, sustaining fatal head injuries.
2. Circumstances: The Scout group had originally planned to hike up Snowdon but changed plans due to poor weather. They went to Llandudno instead, where Ben and two other Scouts separated from the main group and took an unsupervised route up the Great Orme.
3. Inquest Findings: After three inquests (the first two were aborted due to legal issues), a jury concluded that Ben was unlawfully killed by the Explorer Scout Leader and Assistant Explorer Scout Leader. The verdict also stated that the Scout Association's neglect contributed to his death.
4. Lack of Safety Measures: The inquest revealed that no written risk assessment was conducted for the trip, no on-the-day risk assessments were carried out, and there was no Scout-accredited first aider present.
5. Legal Implications: The Assistant Coroner, David Pojur, referred the Scout Association and an unnamed employee to the police for potential conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
6. Family's Response: Ben's mother, Jackie Leonard, expressed relief at the verdict but described the five-year wait for the inquest finding as "soul destroying." She has called for external regulation of the Scout Association and a public inquiry.
7. Scout Association's Response: The organization apologized to Ben's family, accepted responsibility for his death, and committed to learning from the incident. They have promised changes to risk assessments, safety rules, training, and support for volunteers.
Ben Leonard Case
This case has raised significant questions about safety practices within the Scout Association and has led to calls for improved oversight and regulation of youth organizations.
