New scheme to reduce STIs and unintended pregnancies rolled out across Teesside
A sexual health service on Teesside is launching a new initiative
A sexual health service on Teesside is launching a new initiative, offering free condoms, in a bid to reduce sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancies.
This new service, delivered by Preventx - the UK’s largest provider of online sexual health services - aims to boost the sexual health and wellbeing of people in the region, including those who are most at risk of poor sexual health outcomes.
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies and residents of Stockton-on-Tees, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Redcar & Cleveland, aged 13 and over can use the online service with the option to receive the order by post or pick up from a convenient collection point.
With either option, service users are provided with information about condoms, including how to use them. Individuals aged 13, 14 or 15 can use the service following a confidential “check in” with a trained worker to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the service.
Condoms can be used by most people and come in a range of shapes and sizes. By offering free access to condoms, dams and lubricant, local commissioners expect ‘Doink’ to play a crucial role in improving sexual health and wellbeing by helping to prevent new infections and unintended pregnancy in the region.
The condoms come in a range of shapes and sizes, helping to ensure they are suitable for everyone who wants to use them.
Providing access to free condoms is expected to increase condom use and support sexually active people in the region to keep themselves and their partners safe.
Dr Vanessa Apea, Medical Director at Preventx, said: “With STIs and unintended pregnancy rates on the rise, it’s so important to keep yourself and your partner safe if you are sexually active.
“Using condoms and having regular testing is the best way to do this.
“We’re proud to work with Teesside Together and we hope this new service will help normalise condom use - making it easier than ever to stay safe in 2026 and beyond.”
Residents across Teesside (Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough Hartlepool and Redcar & Cleveland), who wish to access the service can register online.
The region’s free Teesside Together integrated sexual health service also provides free condoms which can be collected from the hubs in each of the four local authority areas.