PURPLE chairs are being used as beacons of safety for women and girls across Somerset.

Seats are being installed at libraries across the county, symbolising a safe space for people to get information about health and wellbeing, as well as support and resources available to them in whatever circumstances they find themselves in.

The seats will offer help and support for incidences including:
Antenatal and postnatal care
Physical activity during pregnancy and after birth
Breast cancer support
Health visiting service
Domestic abuse support,
Gambling
Cervical screening
Go smoke free
Anti-social behaviour and harassment

Library staff have also put together a carefully chosen selection of books on Women’s Wellness, displayed in the health and wellbeing section.

Purple chairs and information packs can be found in at libraries in Bridgwater, Chard, Frome, Glastonbury, Taunton, Williton, and Yeovil.

Cllr Adam Dance, lead member for public health, equalities and diversity at Somerset Council, said: “We hope this space will provide an environment where women and girls can easily access health and wellbeing information and signposting in a familiar and comfortable setting.

“We hope the Purple Chair initiative is something people talk about and share with family, friends, and within their communities.”

The Purple Chair Scheme has been funded as part of a Home Office Safer Streets programme, aimed at improving feelings of safety for women and girls in public spaces.

This project also highlights the Safer Somerset Partnership commitment to support women and girls to live free from violence and harassment.

Information packs accompanying the purple chairs offer valuable information for everyone, irrespective of gender or identity.