Dear Governors of Stanwell Comprehensive School,

We, the undersigned parents and guardians of students at Stanwell Comprehensive, are writing to strongly urge the school’s leadership to implement and support the C-Card scheme—a confidential and accessible sexual health initiative for young people.

The C-Card scheme, already successfully implemented in most secondary schools across the Vale of Glamorgan, provides young people aged 13–25 with free access to condoms, sexual health advice, and support in a safe and non-judgmental setting. It is a well-established and evidence-based program designed to:

• Reduce rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Prevent unplanned pregnancies
• Promote healthy, consensual relationships
• Break down stigma around accessing sexual health resources

Despite its proven benefits, Stanwell Comprehensive remains one of only two schools in the Vale of Glamorgan not currently participating in this scheme. This places our young people at a disadvantage compared to their peers in neighbouring schools.

Why is this important?

Sexual health education and access to services are essential for the wellbeing and safety of our children. According to recent data from the Vale Student Network Research Report and the Wales Public Health report:

• 44% of sexually active students in the Vale had sex before the age of 15
• 69% of sexually active in students in the Vale of Glamorgan are NOT using condoms
• Chlamydia and gonorrhoea at a 10 year high in Wales with 22% increase for chlamydia compared to previous year and 127% increase for gonorrhoea (with most diagnoses in 15-24 year olds)

These figures highlight the urgent need for accessible sexual health services within school environments, where young people spend a large portion of their time.

Furthermore, Brook and the Family Planning Association highlight that “There is no evidence that providing access to condoms through schemes like the C-Card increases sexual activity in young people. In fact, these schemes can contribute to young people making more informed, responsible choices—including delaying sex.”

The C-Card scheme is not about encouraging sexual activity, but about ensuring those who are sexually active have the tools and information to make safe, informed choices. It empowers young people to take responsibility for their sexual health and seek advice when needed.

As parents, we want to see our school leading on safeguarding and student welfare, not lagging behind. We believe Stanwell Comprehensive should join the majority of schools in the Vale in recognizing the importance of this FREE initiative.

We respectfully request that the governors review the current stance on the C-Card scheme and take immediate steps to work with YMCA Cardiff, the already trained and onboard school nurse, and other relevant local services to implement it at Stanwell Comprehensive.

Together, let’s ensure our children are protected, informed, and supported.

Sincerely,

On behalf of concerned parents and guardians at Stanwell Comprehensive School, Sarah Peart

C-Card Project Coordinator in the Healthy Relationships Team (SHOT) at YMCA Cardiff

sarah.peart@ymcacardiff.wales