Blog

TOGETHER FOR WEST SOMERSET APPEAL

Somerset Community Foundation

The Together for West Somerset Appeal has been created to help the children, families and communities affected by the coach crash in Exmoor on 17 July 2025. The Appeal is for individuals, businesses, charitable trusts or statutory partners who would like to donate 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.

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.

Funds will be used to support:

  • Individuals experiencing psychological distress, hardship, injury as a result of the events of 17 July.
  • Children and staff from Minehead Middle School who are affected by the events of 17 July
  • Individuals in the wider community affected by the events on 17 July.

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.

We have significant experience in running emergency appeals.

We’ve run significant local appeals for flood relief, the Coronavirus pandemic and Cost-of-Living Crisis. This expertise, combined with over 20 years experience of making grants to local community organisations and individuals, means you can trust that your donation will be spent with great care and reach those who need it most.

To donate go to :Donate Here

Service of Prayer and Reflection at St Andrew’s, Minehead

Dear all

In the aftermath of the terrible events of Thursday, Revs Michelle and Philip Butcher (Vicars of Minehead) have organised a service of Prayer and Reflection tomorrow afternoon at 4.30pm in St Andrew’s, Wellington Square (see attachment), together with ecumenical colleagues. This is open to anyone who has been affected by the tragedy, although I know there are also some similar events being organised in some of our local churches across the area. Whether you decide to come or not, please do hold this service in your prayers.

Personally, I have been deeply moved by how much mutual support and connection there has been over the last few days, which reflect the mystery of divine love present in the midst of our greatest anguishes. 

Blessings to all

Kenneth

Rev’d Kenneth Cross

Vicar of Alcombe and Associate Vicar of Dunster, Timberscombe and Wootton Courtenay

Part of the Exmoor Deanery in the Diocese of Bath and Wells