A SCHEME which sees winter coats offered for free to people in need is being expanded.

The Winter Coat Exchange sees people donate unused garments at Somerset libraries, where they can be collected by people who need one.

This year, Somerset Council has announced it is expanding the project to 12 libraries: Taunton, Priorswood (Taunton), Wellington, Dulverton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Minehead, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury, Street, Langport, and Chard.

Last year, the scheme ran in eight libraries, with Minehead, Shepton Mallet, Street and Langport taking part for the first time in 2024.

The Winter Coat Exchange also helps to support a green and sustainable Somerset, in the month of November, which is Buy Nothing New month, a campaign led by Keep Britain Tidy.

“From the water and energy used in production, to the fuel used in delivery, every new item we buy comes with an environmental price tag,” a Somerset Council spokesperson said.

“The campaign highlights that ‘Recycling is good, but we can do better’. Reusing, swapping, renting and buying second hand are all great ways to waste less.”

More than 540 coats have already been donated in Somerset – with more than 200 already finding new homes.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture, said: “The scheme wouldn’t work without the generous donations from the community. All participating libraries are open to donations, just drop your coat, or coats, off during opening hours.

“The coat exchange really does help families, reduce waste, and save money.”

How does the Winter Coat Exchange in Somerset work?

• You can take a coat without making a donation.
• You can donate a coat without taking one.
• All donations must be of good quality and in a clean condition.
• Coats of any shape or size, for adults or children are accepted.
• Donors are asked to hand items directly to a member of staff at one of the participating libraries.