C-Card scheme

The C-Card scheme is a free condom distribution programme for young people in the UK. You register once (usually at a sexual health clinic, youth centre, or similar venue), get a card, and then use that card to pick up free condoms from collection points — pharmacies, youth services, GP surgeries, and other locations — without having to explain yourself or ask each time.

• The C-Card scheme gives young people free, easy access to condoms.
• You register once, get a card, and then collect condoms from participating outlets.
• It's available in many (but not all) areas of the UK — availability varies by local council. [CHECK: current coverage]
• You don't need to give a reason or have an awkward conversation each time you collect.
• It's confidential.

[DIAGRAM: Simple infographic showing how the C-Card scheme works — register, get card, collect free condoms from outlets]

How it works

The process is straightforward:

1. Register — this usually happens at a sexual health clinic, Brook service, youth centre, or sometimes a school. A trained person will have a quick chat with you about condom use, consent, and sexual health. It's not a test — it's just to make sure you know the basics.
2. Get your card — after registering, you get a C-Card (sometimes a physical card, sometimes digital).
3. Collect condoms — show your card at any participating outlet (pharmacy, GP surgery, youth club, etc.) and pick up free condoms. No questions, no judgement.

The card means you only have to have the initial conversation once. After that, collecting condoms is quick and discreet.

Why it exists

Buying condoms can feel awkward, especially when you're young. The C-Card scheme removes that barrier by making condoms free and easy to access without a face-to-face conversation every time. The idea is simple: if condoms are easier to get, more people will use them, and rates of unplanned pregnancy and STIs go down.

Is it available near me?

C-Card schemes are run by local councils, so availability depends on where you live. Most areas in England have some version of it, though the name and exact setup can vary. Some areas call it something different or run similar schemes under other names. [CHECK: Scotland/Wales/NI equivalents]

To find out if there's a scheme near you, search for "C-Card" plus your area, or ask at your local sexual health clinic or Brook service.

Things people ask about the C-Card scheme

Do I have to be a certain age?

The target age varies by area, but it's typically for under-25s. Some schemes are specifically for under-18s. There's no minimum age — if you're mature enough to register, you can access the scheme.

Will my parents find out?

No. The scheme is confidential. Your details won't be shared with parents or school.

Can I just buy condoms instead?

Of course — condoms are available in shops, pharmacies, and supermarkets with no age restriction. The C-Card scheme is just a free, low-key alternative.

What if I'm embarrassed to register?

The registration chat is designed to be relaxed and non-judgemental. The people running it do this regularly and won't make it weird. After that first time, collecting condoms is as simple as showing a card.

Where to get help

• Brook — can help you find C-Card schemes and other free condom services for under-25s.
• Your local sexual health clinic — usually runs or knows about the C-Card scheme in your area.

The C-Card scheme is a way for young people in the UK to get free condoms. You sign up once, get a card, and then use that card to collect free condoms from places like pharmacies, youth centres, or doctor's surgeries. You do not have to explain yourself or have an awkward chat each time.

To sign up, you go to a place like a sexual health clinic, youth centre, or sometimes a school. Someone will have a quick, friendly talk with you about how to use condoms and staying safe. After that, you get your card and can collect condoms whenever you need them.

The scheme exists because buying condoms can feel embarrassing, especially when you are young. Making them free and easy to get means more people use them, which helps prevent pregnancy and infections.

The scheme is run by local councils, so whether it is available depends on where you live. Most areas in England have something like it. To find out, search for "C-Card" plus where you live, or ask at a sexual health clinic.

Your parents will not be told. The scheme is private. There is no minimum age. If you are old enough to understand the sign-up chat, you can use it. You can also always just buy condoms from a shop if you prefer. There is no age limit for buying them.