During the August festivities, the Elche City Council, through its Women's Department, established several Purple Points that assisted a total of 6,332 individuals. The councilwoman for the area, Caridad Martínez, highlighted the importance of this service in informing, preventing, raising awareness, and assisting citizens facing potential cases of harassment and violence, thereby promoting safe and respectful festivities.
This year, three fixed Purple Points were set up: at the Municipal Barracks located at the Miguel Hernández University (UMH), the Barraca Jove, and the Racó de Ocio on Paseo de la Estación. These points recorded over 4,600 assists between August 7th and 15th. Additionally, two mobile points, situated in the barracks area and the city center, assisted approximately 1,700 people.
The increase in assistance compared to the previous year (2025), when 5,281 consultations were recorded, was nearly 20%. Consultations at the fixed points amounted to around 3,700, while the increase at the mobile points was approximately 200.
Martínez noted the success of installing a fixed purple point within the municipal barracks area, improving accessibility and the technicians' capacity to assist, which resulted in a higher number of assists than the previous year.
Regarding interventions, 35 actions were carried out. These included accompanying individuals who felt in danger, assisting women in a state of intoxication requiring medical attention, and providing support in cases of assault. One of these interventions led to the arrest of a man for assaulting a woman at the mobile point in the barracks area.
The service comprised a team of 5 psychologists, 5 equality promoters, and one coordinator. Flyers, fans with information, and cup covers were distributed.
According to the councilwoman, the festivities proceeded without major incidents, and in situations of alleged gender-based violence, referrals were made to the Integral Attention Service for Women (SAIM).
Martínez also recalled that Purple Points are established at the festivities of the town's districts, such as Torrellano, El Altet, Las Bayas, La Hoya, Matola, and La Marina. This service will also be offered at the Elche Oasis Music Fest (October 9th and 10th) and during the Halloween and New Year's Eve celebrations.
The objectives of the service, provided by Psicología y Servicios Educativos SL, include preventing and eliminating violence against women, especially sexual assault; informing and educating the public; raising awareness of victim support resources; coordinating actions with the National Police, Local Police, health services, and other resources; and fostering societal participation in prevention.
