Somerset Council has confirmed it is providing a £50,000 contribution to Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) to help provide support to those affected by the tragic incident which occurred on the A396 on 17 July.
SCF has launched an emergency Appeal for the children, families and wider community affected by the tragic events of July 17 when a coach carrying pupils and staff from Minehead Middle School left the road in Exmoor.
The Together for West Somerset Appeal will be set up and distributed with guidance from a range of partners, including:
- Somerset Council,
- Somerset NHS,
- local schools,
- National Emergencies Trust,
- Fundraising Regulator, and
- The Charity Commission.
Somerset Council has agreed to contribute £50,000 to provide immediate and effective support to those affected through the fund coordinated by SCF, ensuring appropriate governance and flexibility in responding to both immediate and longer-term needs.
The establishment of such a fund aligns with best practice guidance from the National Emergencies Trust (NET), which advocates for structured, community-led responses following major incidents to ensure that support is delivered fairly, efficiently, and with accountability.
Council Leader Bill Revans said:
Our hearts and our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragedy. This donation reflects Somerset Council’s deep commitment to standing beside our communities in times of need, ensuring support reaches those who need it most – swiftly, compassionately, and with care.
We are grateful to Somerset Community Foundation for launching its appeal and for offering to co-ordinate community efforts and donations. I know they will ensure funds swiftly reach those who need immediate help and support our communities in the months and years to come.
Justin Sargent, Chief Executive of SCF said:
We’re very grateful for this donation from Somerset Council. This significant contribution is invaluable as we work to distribute funds swiftly to those affected to fund a package of short and long-term support.
The contribution will be funded from Somerset Council’s Corporate Contingency Budget.
Somerset Council is also continuing to develop a coordinated plan of support that considers the needs of impacted children, families, school staff, and the wider community. This includes a child psychologist directly deployed to support the Multi-Academy Trust (MAT).
The Council is working in close liaison with mental health services, family support teams, and the local voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector to ensure the right support is in place over the coming days and through the summer holidays.
There has also been additional engagement with the community to seek direct feedback on the type of support it might need in the coming weeks.
To donate to the Appeal or read more, visit somersetcf.org.uk/appeal.
