Update on Multi-Agency Response - School Bus Major Incident

The incident, which involved 76 pupils from Strangford Integrated College and the driver, has been a distressing experience for all those affected.

The initial emergency response, led by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), has transitioned to a recovery phase led by the Education Authority.

A multi-agency group, including representatives from the PSNI, Resilience Team, Education Authority, Strangford Integrated College, Translink, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, and Ards and North Down Borough Council, continue to meet regularly to coordinate support efforts.

Strangford Integrated College, working closely with the Education Authority's Critical Incident Response Team, has been providing emotional support to the young people impacted.

A PSNI investigation into the circumstances of the collision is ongoing, and the Education Authority and Translink are liaising closely in relation to transport arrangements. 

A spokesperson for the multi-agency response group said: "Our thoughts remain with all the pupils, their families, and friends affected by this incident. We wish them the very best in their recovery and want to assure them that support will continue to be available in the coming days and weeks.

“We would like to thank in particular the Principal, leadership team, staff and wider school community of Strangford Integrated College for their unwavering support to all young people impacted by the incident.”

A number of support resources have also been developed by South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and may be of assistance, which are available under the ‘Coping after a frightening and distressing event’ section and video guides.