Condom Distribution Schemes: How Public Health Organisations Can Improve Access
A condom distribution scheme makes it easier for people to get free or low-cost condoms where and when they need them. The best schemes connect condoms with advice, testing and local sexual health services, not just a box of supplies.
This guide explains how a condom distribution scheme works, what NICE recommends and how councils, NHS services, universities and charities can plan products, ordering and support.
What is a condom distribution scheme?
A condom distribution scheme is a local programme that gives people access to free or low-cost condoms, often alongside sexual health information and referral to other services. Schemes are usually run by local authorities, NHS sexual health services, charities and education providers, sometimes through community partners such as pharmacies, youth services and GP practices.
NICE recommends offering a mix of scheme types, including multicomponent schemes that combine condoms with advice and support, single component schemes that provide free condoms, and cost-price sales. A mix helps different groups use the route that suits them.
What NICE recommends for condom distribution schemes
NICE guideline NG68 sets out how local areas should plan condom distribution schemes. Its recommendations include the following.
For young people, NICE recommends tailored multicomponent schemes for those up to 16 and others owed a duty of care, and suggests considering extending them to everyone up to age 25. Services should be confidential, youth-friendly and easy to reach, and schemes should be publicised where at-risk people spend time, including websites, social media and dating apps. Read the full NICE guidance on condom distribution schemes for the detail.
How C-Card condom schemes work
Many areas run C-Card schemes, which let young people register once and then collect free condoms from local outlets. In Bath and North East Somerset, for example, the scheme is open to young people aged 13 to 24, and those under 16 first have a short conversation with a professional about how it works. Members then use their card to collect condoms without needing another consultation. You can see how one council explains its C-Card scheme for free condoms.
Every area runs its scheme differently, so check eligibility and registration with your local authority’s sexual health service.
Choose the right products for your scheme
NICE recommends offering a range of condom types and sizes, with lubricant and other barrier products where wanted. LTC Healthcare’s sexual health product range includes regular, textured, flavoured, ultra-thin and extra-safe condoms, water-based lubricants, non-latex internal condoms and scented oral dams. For more on how demand is changing, see our article on how sexual health products are evolving to meet diverse needs.
When you specify supplies, think about who will use them, how they will be stored or handed out and what documentation your procurement team needs. LTC Healthcare provides regulatory compliance support for public health and procurement teams, and can share current product specifications and compliance documentation on request.
Plan ordering and supply
Public health organisations can usually order through more than one route. The EXS Condom Scheme is an ordering route created for healthcare professionals, local authorities, charities and education providers. It launched in 2010 as The London Condom Scheme and was rebranded in 2023. NHS teams can also access relevant products through NHS Supply Chain, or contact LTC Healthcare directly for guidance on the best route.
LTC Healthcare has supplied the NHS and other public health organisations for more than 30 years and can support both targeted campaigns and large-scale procurement. Next-day delivery is available through the online ordering service, which helps when outlets need restocking quickly.
Support your scheme with the right resources
Supplies are only part of a successful scheme. Registered public health partners can access the LTC Healthcare Asset Hub for product information, high-resolution imagery, educational content, training resources and branding materials to promote their service.
Running a campaign on campus? Our guide to planning a sexual health campaign for universities and students covers goals, timing, access points and measuring results.
Condom distribution scheme planning checklist
Supply your condom distribution scheme with LTC Healthcare
LTC Healthcare is a UK-based, family-owned business that has worked in sexual health since 1993. The team supports NHS services, local authorities, universities and charities with public health condoms and sexual health supplies, dedicated account support and resources for safer sex campaigns.
