21 July 2025

Together for West Somerset Appeal launched after Exmoor coach crash

Local charity Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) has launched an emergency Appeal for the children, families and wider community affected by the tragic events of July 17 when a coach left the road in Exmoor carrying around 70 passengers, including many children from Minehead Middle School.

The Minehead Community Response Fund 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. 

Justin Sargent, CEO of SCF, said: “The events of Thursday are devastating for the children, families and wider community in Minehead and Exmoor and across our county.”

“We know that what happened will have both immediate and long-term effects on so many people’s lives. We’re launching the Together for West Somerset Appeal to raise funds for the children, families and staff directly impacted and the wider community. We know people will want to do what they can to ease the suffering and pull together around those whose lives have changed in an instant.”

Donations to the Appeal will help to provide direct support for individuals experiencing injury, financial hardship or psychological impacts from the incident. The Appeal will also fund community organisations working in Minehead and the surrounding areas to provide support for those affected.

Councillor Bill Revans, Leader of the Council, said “What happened on Thursday is an unthinkable tragedy. My thoughts, and those of all of my colleagues at Somerset Council, are with everyone affected. We are grateful to SCF for launching their 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.”

Funds from the Go Fund Me appeal launched by local resident Bobbie Rammond which at the time of writing has raised over £25,000, will be distributed by SCF to support a coordinated response.

Bobbie said: “This tragedy has shaken our whole community, and the outpouring of support has been both humbling and emotional. When I started the fundraiser, I simply wanted to do something –  anything – to help those affected. I’m grateful to now be working alongside SCF to ensure that the funds raised go exactly where they’re needed most, with care, transparency and compassion. This partnership will allow us to reach the families and individuals most impacted, not only now but in the difficult weeks and months ahead.”

To donate to the Appeal or read more, visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk/appeal

About Somerset Community Foundation

Somerset Community Foundation is a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities where everyone can thrive. They do this by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.

They provide simple, rewarding and impactful ways for donors to give locally, guided by research and their unrivalled local knowledge.

For small, local charities, community groups and social enterprises, they provide vital funding and support to help their organisations flourish. SCF provide over £4 million of funding to local groups every year.

By inspiring local giving and funding social action, they support local communities to drive change and realise their dreams.

Photo caption: Stock image of Minehead