Purple chairs are being installed in libraries across Somerset to provide a clear beacon of safety for women and girls.

The 'Purple Chair Scheme' provides a safe space for women and girls to get information about health and wellbeing, as well as support and resources available to them in whatever circumstances they find themselves in, 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 the following libraries across Somerset: Bridgwater, Chard, Frome, Glastonbury, Taunton, Williton, and Yeovil. 

Cllr Adam Dance, Lead Member for Public Health, Equalities and Diversity, 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.

The information packs accompanying the purple chairs offer valuable information for everyone, irrespective of gender or identity. Somerset libraries warmly welcome everyone to access information, signposting, and support.