If you are a parent or carer and would like more information, pelase see our Information for Parents leaflet.

Condom Distribution Scheme

Condoms are free!

Condoms will protect against most sexually transmitted infections including HIV and chlamydia.

Although condoms can be used as a contraceptive it is always best to use a more reliable form of contraception such as the implant, Interuterine Device (IUD/coil) or contraceptive pill. There are loads of contraceptives available so please talk to your contraception nurse at your local doctors surgery or visit the sexual health clinic at St Mary's Hospital, Newport.

Condoms can be used for oral, vaginal and anal sex. Condoms come in all shapes, sizes and flavours. REMEMBER always use your free sachet of lube. Lube can make sex easier and more fun. Never use oils such as massage oils, vegetable oils, butter or sun tan oil instead of lube as these can damage your condom and may cause it to split.

REMEMBER GAY OR STRAIGHT YOU NEED TO USE A CONDOM!

The Isle of Wight Condom Distribution Scheme

The Isle of Wight Condom Distribution Scheme is now up and running. This means that you can get free condoms if you are under 25 from lots of different organisations, all you have to do is visit one of our designated sites listed below, and sign up to the scheme.

Signing up is simple and straight forward, you just need to fill in a form and go through how to put on a condom, and where to go for help if your condom splits. No names or addresses are asked for.

Once you have signed up you get a CD card and a bag of condoms (the party bag) When you need more condoms you just show your card to one of the sites listed below and you will be given more condoms, NO QUESTIONS ASKED!

Remember if you loose your card you will need to sign up again.

Over 25s

You may be able to access free condoms in certain circumstances if you are over 25 call 0845 050 9530 to find out more.

If you are aged 13 - 15

All 13 to 15 year olds will be encouraged to speak to one of our trained members of staff at the below sign up / distribution sites. These professionals will make sure that you know that it is OK to say no if you do not want to have sex and give you the chance to have a chat about how you are feeling and look at the choices available to you.

REMEMBER they are there to listen and not to tell.

However if you decide you want to go ahead and have sex because you feel it is right for you can get signed up to the scheme straight away.

Remember having sex under 16 is against the law.

Everything is confidential - we don't even ask for names!!!!

Where to join the scheme

To see where to join the scheme, have a look at our Where to get Help page.

PLEASE make sure that you call in advance to agree an appointment time/date so that you are not disappointed on arrival. Many thanks.

Free condoms are also available from some Island doctor's surgeries and other youth organisations who are signed up to the CD Scheme (please call these direct to find out if they are signed up and to get more details on how you can join). Or call us on 0845 050 9530

If you are a professional and would like your organisation to join the Islands Condom Distribution Scheme please feel free to email us on ruthe1@iow.nhs.uk for further details.

Top Condom Tips

Get the facts

Keep your condoms in a cool, dark place. Heat can damage them.

Condoms don't last forever. Check the use-by date.

Keep your condoms handy if there's a chance you're going to have sex. Always have a spare.

Sperm comes out way before a boy comes so put a condom on before you get going don't leave it till the last minute.

'Gel charging' (putting a little extra lubricant onto the head of the penis before you roll the condom on) can feel extra good!

Never use a condom more than once.

Never wear two condoms at the same time it may cause the condoms to come off.

Dispose of your condoms carefully wrapped in paper in a bin, never put them down the toilet they can cause a blockage, never throw them away in the street or open spaces.

For more information about putting on a condom go to www.ruthinking.co.uk.