Condom dispensers fitted in Noda taxi cabs

Feb 15 2010 by Jack McKay, The Journal

“People in Newcastle are very open and easy-going. I think it’s going to be a popular scheme.

“Safe sex may not be the easiest topic to discuss, but it is an important issue, particularly at this time of year when many of our cabs are picking up new young lovers who have just enjoyed a wonderful date and are looking forward to spending more time together. Making condoms available in the taxis made perfect sense. It’s often only in the taxi that people suddenly realise that they are unprepared for the way the night is heading.

“The final choice as to whether a driver carries the condoms in their own cabs is made by them individually.

“They will definitely be available from our booking office in Newcastle Central Station, so if you know you are in need of this specific extra that we offer, you can always arrange your taxi from there.”

A Department of Health spokesman said: “Condoms prevent pregnancy, averting a lifetime reminder of one night of pleasure in the form of an unplanned baby.

“They are also the best way to prevent against sexually transmitted infections by blocking the exchange of bodily fluids.”

The safe sex campaign comes as figures show that infections such as chlamydia and genital warts are increasing, especially among young people.

In addition, cases of HIV infection have more than doubled since 1999.

Making condoms available made sense. It’s often only in the taxi that people suddenly realise that they are unprepared for how the night is heading