Scheme Summary
This is a brief introduction to the condom distribution scheme in St Helens.
NICE guidelines cover condom distribution schemes. They state ‘The aim is to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In addition, these schemes can provide a good introduction to broader sexual and reproductive health services, especially for younger people, and help prevent unplanned pregnancies.
- Who can use the scheme?
This scheme is for anyone aged 13 and over.
- What about under 16’s?
There is no law which governs how old a person must be to purchase or possess condoms. However if a young person is under 16, staff have a duty to check that the young person meets the Fraser Guidelines.
- Does everyone need a condom demonstration?
Under 16’s will need to have a condom demonstration as well as being assessed against the Fraser Guidelines.
- Under 16’s will need to have a condom demonstration as well as being assessed against the Fraser Guidelines.
You would contact your agencies lead safeguarding officer.
- Do I need to keep a record of how many condoms we give out?
The facilitator will keep a record of how many condoms are given out to each agency with the expiry date. Agencies must keep a record of who they have distributed condoms too.
- Do we have to do any training to be a distribution point?
Yes however it is short and informal.
- Where can I get promotional material from?
Your facilitator can provide this for free.
- Who can give out condoms?
Only staff who attended training will be able to give out condoms.
- Is everyone entitled to receive lube?
Lube is already pre packed in everyone’s wallet. If a service user asks for extra lube there are no guidelines to say this can’t happen. Lube can help to make sex more comfortable and pleasurable.
- Who can order condoms?
When an agency decides to join the scheme a member of staff will agree to be the lead contact and that will be the person who can order more condoms.
- What website do we need to refer our service users to?
www.sexualhealthsthelens.nhs.uk and we are also on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
For any more information, you can contact: