Written question WQ88177

Condom use should be promoted and easily accessible to help to avoid unintended pregnancies, particularly among teenagers, as well as to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Access to information, advice and contraception is vital.

C-card schemes have been in operation in Wales for a number of years, working within the context of their local communities. C-Card schemes give service providers greater opportunity to support young people in safely managing their sexual health, in comparison to general condom distribution schemes where condoms are freely available to take at will, in any quantity, and without appropriate advice and information.

The C-card scheme is offered to 13-25 year olds and individuals are assessed for safeguarding and in line with Gillick Competence/Fraser Guidelines. The Fraser guidelines are used when young people under the age of 16 access C-card schemes to assess the appropriateness of services and the possible need for safeguarding action. Further information can be found on the NSPCC website at http://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/child-protection-system/legal-definition-child-rights-law/gillick-competency-fraser-guidelines/).

Parents are not automatically informed when their children access the C-card schemes because if deemed Gillick competent the young person has the same right to medical confidentiality as any adult accessing health services. Assurance of confidentiality is an important reason why young people often prefer to talk to people outside the family on sensitive subjects associated with growing up. I see this as a positive approach and believe that C-card schemes are a way to educate young people and to help them to take control of such an important part of growing up and sexual health.

The Welsh Government has not undertaken direct action to make parents aware of C-card schemes, however information on local C-card schemes is available through a wide range of websites any may also be advertised locally through a range of formats.