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C-Card FAQ’s
- What happens when I register for a C-Card? – How long will it take?
- I already have a SHOWT card do I need a C-Card?
- Do I get condoms straight away?
- How often can you scan your C-Card?
- Is the C-Card scheme available to anyone?
- What happens if I am under 14 or over 25?
- What happens if I lose my card?
- Where can I use my card?
- Is the service confidential?
- Can females get male condoms?
- Is it embarrassing?
What happens when I register for a C-Card? – How long will it take?
At the first visit to a C-Card Outlet, a trained C-Card Adviser will:
- Take some basic details from you and issue you with an activated C-Card
- They will show you how to use a condom correctly and what to do, and where to go, if it splits or you didn’t use one
- Offer information about STI’s and unplanned pregnancy and how to avoid them
- Offer you a Chlamydia test if it is appropriate to do so
- Provide information about where to access FREE condoms and other sexual health services
- Offer information on LARC (Long Acting Reversible Contraception)
- Discuss any drug and alcohol issues
- Provide information on how and where to access FREE emergency contraception
- Answer any questions you may ask
The first registration may take about 20 minutes.
At future visits (remember you can drop into any C-Card Outlet!) the C-Card Adviser will:
- Help you scan your card
- Provide you with the condoms/Chlamydia test you require
- Answer any questions you may have
I already have a SHOWT card do I need a C-Card?
The C-Card scheme has replaced the existing SHOWT card and will be needed to access the scheme. It is an improved scheme that offers more benefits such as a greater choice of where you access services, faster distribution of products and greater advice and signposting. All you have to do is go along to a C-Card outlet and quickly register your details
Do I get condoms straight away?
Yes, you will be given a starter pack, which includes a leaflet, condoms and other useful information about staying safe. You will be given enough to last you until your next visit with a maximum of 12 condoms per week.
How often can you scan your C-Card?
Under 16? You can scan your card once a week. Before you reach your 10th visit a C-Card adviser will ask how you are and will reactivate your card.
Over 16? You can scan your card once a week. Before you reach your 20th visit a C-Card adviser will ask how you are and will reactivate your card.
Is the C-Card scheme available to anyone?
The C-Card scheme is available to ALL young people aged between 14 and 24. However Chlamydia Tests through the C-Card scheme are only available to 15 year olds to 24 year olds. The C-Card Adviser will let you know how to get a test if you are under 15.
What happens if I am under 14 or over 25?
You can still get FREE condoms and Chlamydia testing at your local CASH clinic (Contraceptive And Sexual Health service) and some GP practices.
What happens if I lose my card?
Don’t worry just call into any C-Card outlet, give your name and date of birth and a new card will be issued. Your old card will be de-activated.
Where can I use my card?
Once registered you can scan your card at any of these places.
Is the service confidential?
The service is confidential and your details will only be shared with those managing the scheme. Where generic information is shared to help plan services, we will make sure that data wont be able to identify any individual. Note: The only reason why we might have to consider passing on confidential information without your permission, would be to protect you or someone else from serious harm. We will always try and discuss this with your first.
Can females get male condoms?
Yes, anyone registered onto the C-Card scheme can access the full range of FREE contraception and advice.
Is it embarrassing?
By joining the C-Card scheme you can be assured you are getting support from people who are experienced in talking about sex and relationships. They won’t be embarrassed so you don’t need to be either.
Updated 11 July 2011
