The Somerset-wide integrated Sexual Health Service (SWISH), operated by the NHS Foundation Trust, is currently facing shortages in condom supplies due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Due to the short-term supply chain issue, SWISH clinics are having to reduce the total quantity of condoms supplied in their safer sex packs that can be requested by people via the SWISH website until the condom orders come in.

"We are experiencing a short-term supply chain issue that means we are temporarily reducing the quantity of condoms supplied in the safe sex packs that can be requested by people," said a Somerset NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson.  We are confident that the supply will be back to normal in the next few weeks.” 

So far, only one part of the SWISH services is being affected by the condom shortage, which are the safer sex packs.

Which clinics are affected by the condom shortage?

The full affected clinic list includes:

Bridgwater

Burnham-on-sea

Chard, Crewkerne, Langport,

Frome, Shepton Mallet,

Glastonbury, Street, Wells

Minehead, Williton, Watchet

Taunton, Wellington, Wiveliscombe

Yeovil, Wincanton

SWISH is commissioned by Somerset Council and provides free, accessible and confidential sexual health services in the county, including all types of contraception, and sexually transmitted infections (STI) testing and treatment.

Their services are for people of ages, genders, and orientations and you do not need to see a GP first.

Currently, anyone going in for regular, booked or drop-in appointments anywhere in Somerset can still access condoms as normal.

Likewise, the C-Card scheme, which offers free condoms and information on sexual health to teenagers, remains unaffected.

The Somerset NHS Foundation Trust said it will continue to give updates on the ongoing situation.