A new condom campaign is being launched on September 8 by Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) in partnership with Coventry Primary Care Trust, to remind people in the city to 'Get it On' during sex. HIV infection rates in Coventry are higher than ever – this campaign aims to reduce HIV by encouraging people to use condoms when they have sex. 

The advertising campaign will feature billboard adverts and posters at bus stops across the city for the next two weeks. The adverts use simple messages and striking images to remind people to ‘Get it on’ and use a condom.

In 2006, 662 people in Coventry were living with HIV, rising from 568. More women are diagnosed with HIV than men with most cases occurring in people between the ages of 25 to 34.  People most at risk of HIV are gay men and the African community.

Tina Prashar, Midlands Regional Manager at Terrence Higgins Trust said, “The Get it On campaign aims to remind people to practise safer sex by using a condom. We're not trying to make condoms sexy, and we're not trying to pretend they're always easy to use - but we are saying that they are the most effective form of protection for you and your partner. It's important to enjoy yourself but it’s just as important to protect yourself and your partner by playing safe.”

Ruth Tennant, consultant in public health at Coventry Teaching PCT says “Coventry has one of the highest rates of HIV in the West Midlands and we’re seeing an increase in cases each year in the city, mostly in men and women under the age of 45. We’re encouraging people to protect themselves by using condoms and contact their GP, THT or a GU clinic for free testing.”

Leaflets and posters will also be available for community centres to display and can be ordered by contacting THT in Coventry on 024 76229292 or info.coventry@tht.org.uk

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