A NEW appeal has been launched to raise funds for children, families and communities affected by last week’s tragic coach crash on Exmoor.
Minehead Middle School pupil Oliver Price sadly died after the incident, at around 3pm on July 17, which saw a coach carrying pupils and staff leave the A396 at Cutcombe Hill, flip over, and slide down a 20ft slope.
Now, the Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) has launched the Together for West Somerset Appeal, giving individuals, businesses, charitable trusts and others the opportunity to support those affected.
“The tragic incident is devastating for the tight-knit communities of Minehead and Exmoor and all of us here in Somerset,” an SCF spokesperson said.
“We know many people in Somerset, and far beyond, will be moved to do what they can to help. Together, we’ll provide both immediate and long-term support to those affected.
“The 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.”
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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.”
Funds raised would go towards supporting:
- Individuals experiencing psychological distress, hardship, injury as a result of the events of July 17
- Children and staff from Minehead Middle School who are affected by the events of July 17
- Individuals in the wider community affected by the events on July 17
“The Appeal will also provide funding for community organisations working in Minehead and the surrounding areas to provide support to those affected, such as help with emotional wellbeing, hardship or coordinating the community response,” the spokesperson added.
Councillor Bill Revans, leader of Somerset 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 resident Bobbie Rammond, which has raised more than £25,000, and 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.”
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