Outcry at free NHS condoms for children

A PLAN offering condoms and sex advice to children as young as 13 has been slammed by critics who say the NHS should face charges for promoting under- age sex.

The bid to cut teen pregnancies and reduce the risk of youngsters catching sexually transmitted diseases is being piloted by Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust.

But the Campaign For Real Education fears the initiative encourages teens to break the current age of consent which is 16.

Group chairman Chris McGovern said: “Sexual Health West Sussex is aiding, abetting and promoting the breaking of the law on consent and should be subjected to criminal prosecution.”

The Family Education Trust said families were being denied the chance to advise youngsters. A spokesman said: “The role of parents and carers is vital in protecting young people as they are privy to emotional wellbeing, friendship groups and unusual behaviours.”

The scheme allows 13 to 24- yearolds to use a card for free condoms, sexual lubricant and advice and is available at 30 venues including surgeries and a sixth form college.

A spokesperson for young peo- ple’s health and wellbeing charity Brook, said: “When young people do choose to have sex, we want them to have the information they need to stay healthy and safe.”

Sexual Health West Sussex lead adviser Richard Williams said: “Providing good access to expert advice and free contraception through the C- Card Scheme improves the sexual health of young people in West Sussex.”

The UK has the highest teenage pregnancy rate in western Europe and the latest figures available show more than 1,500 young people in West Sussex were diagnosed with chlamydia in one year.