Free condoms will be handed out at libraries across Inverclyde after councillors agreed plans for a pilot project.

The move was discussed at a recent meeting of the council’s education and communities committee.

A report put before councillors noted that library staff will be given appropriate training and condoms will be available to service users on request.

Director Ruth Binks told the committee that the move is part of a wider public health drive and aims to ensure the council is ‘taking forward the message about STIs on the increase’.

In her report, Ms Binks said: “Free Condoms Service posters and window stickers will be displayed in library branches.

“Condoms will initially be available on request, and to support sensitivity ‘Choice Cards’ will be freely available in-branch.

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“Services users need only tick the card in line with their preference and hand to staff.”

Councillor Francesca Brennan, vice-convenor of education, said she has 'long been convinced' of libraries being used as a way of pushing for 'social change and progress'.

She said: “I know that libraries have long community health pioneers in terms of accessing information, in terms of finding out more.

“Would I have expected libraries to play a major public health role in Inverclyde? Absolutely.

“I hope staff library staff are fully supported in this development.

“I hope that people make full positive use of this service.”

Councillor Natasha McGuire, vice-convenor of communities, added: “I think by increasing accessibility, this is really going to help more people be safe while having sex.”