The University of Bath takes part in the B&NES C-card scheme which allows you to collect free condoms from a number of local venues including the Roper Centre on campus. To register for a C-card you will need to attend a brief consultation with a Wellbeing Adviser who will explain the scheme, some safety points and issue you a card. You can then use your C-card to collect free condom packs from over 50 venues in Bath and North East Somerset. Consultations last around 15 minutes and can take place in person or virtually.

You can book your appointment to register for a C-Card via MySkills.

Other forms of contraception are available from the NHS, contact your GP or find a local service.

Whilst at university you may decide to have sex or you may not. Either way it is important to understand sexual health in general and how to make healthy choices.

More than a third of cases of sexually transmitted diseases are in the 16-24 age category according to the Health Protection Agency. The best protection against this is appropriate contraception.

Contraception can also help protect against unplanned pregnancy. The NHS offers advice on pregnancy and local services can advise around unplanned pregnancy.

The University Medical Centre are able to offer sexual health advice if you are a patient and the NHS run a Sexual Health Clinic in the city centre where you can book an appointment or attend a walk-in clinic.

You can get free sexual health advice on a number of issues including:

• chlamydia screening
• advice on unplanned pregnancy
• contraception
• emergency contraception
• pregnancy testing
• relationships
• sexual health advice
• sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing

To search for the nearest venue providing these services visit the Banes Safe website find a service.

Domestic abuse

• the SU have a useful guide on domestic and online abuse
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline, available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247
• National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline, 0800 999 5428 email: help@galop.org.uk
• Respect phoneline, 0808 802 4040 - support for those concerned about their use of violence and abuse

If you are a parent

The University has a helpful guide outlining support for student parents.

There is also support if you become pregnant during your studies.