C-Card scheme launched to encourage young people to become clued up on safer relationships
It comes following a rise in STI's in young people here
The Public Health Agency has launched a new service for young people to improve their sexual health and well-being and help reduce the number of new sexually transmitted infections diagnoses in Northern Ireland.
Once a C-Card is issued, the young person is entitled to an agreed number of supplies for free.
Supplies include condoms and lubricant, written instructions and details of local sexual and reproductive health services.
After receiving supplies an agreed number of times, the young person must return to the registration site where their circumstances, sexual health and medical needs will be reviewed.
Barbara Porter, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: “The ‘C-Card Scheme’ is a confidential sexual health service for young people aged 16-25 years old. Once registered, each young person will receive a ‘credit card-style card’ that will enable them to avail of free condoms and lubricant, information support and advice at convenient times and in a variety of locations across Northern Ireland including many youth organisations."
“When used correctly during sexual interactions, condoms are the only type of protection that help prevent both STIs and pregnancy."
"As STIs continue to rise in Northern Ireland we hope that this service will reduce the number of young people contracting unwanted infections and having unplanned pregnancy."
“We also know that for some young people it can be embarrassing to walk into their local shop and purchase condoms. By providing this service in a range of convenient locations and ensuring it is discreet and confidential, young people can avail of access to sexual health services without feeling awkward.”
Barbara concluded: “If you are sexually active, using condoms is an important part of taking care of your sexual health."
“People with STIs don’t always have symptoms, but by having unprotected sex, you could effectively be sleeping with everyone your partner has ever slept with, putting your at risk of getting an STI. Therefore, we are urging people to always use a condom. If there is a chance you have contracted an STI, get tested.”
For further info on sexual health, STI testing and the C-Card initiative, visit www.sexualhealthni.info.