THE Somerset Libraries Winter Coat Exchange is celebrating even more success in providing essential support for those in need - and it’s largely down to the public.

This year the Somerset Council initiative saw an incredible 2,470 coats for both adults and children donated and 2,086 coats taken by people in need – more than double the figure received last year.

The scheme, which runs each year when the weather gets colder, was designed to support the community by providing access to warm coats for everyone, especially those who may struggle to afford them.

All coats that which had not been taken by people in libraries were sent to a local refugee charity RAFT (Refugee Aid From Taunton) which supports displaced people locally and further afield, alongside working with other local charities and groups supporting a variety of different causes.

The Winter Coat Exchange, which is now in its second year, was expanded to 15 libraries across Somerset, including Taunton, Priorswood, Wellington, Dulverton, Bridgwater, Yeovil, Minehead, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury, Street, Langport, Ilminster, North Petherton, Porlock and Chard.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture at Somerset Council, expressed her gratitude for the generous donations from people across the community, who are also doing their bit to promote sustainability and reduce waste.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts said: “The success of the Winter Coat Exchange is a testament to the power of community and the positive impact of collective efforts.

“As the colder weather sets in, Somerset Libraries continue to be more than just places for reading and studying; they become warm, welcoming, social spaces – real community hubs.

“The environmental benefits of the Winter Coat Exchange are equally impressive. By encouraging the reuse of coats, the initiative helps to reduce waste and promote sustainability.”