Holiday health aid (From Barry And District News)

Holiday health aid

BARRY thrillseekers jetting off on holiday are being warned about the dangers of unprotected sex and the date-rape drug Rohypnol.

As the holiday season gets into full swing, young Barry tourists are jetting off to foreign destinations for sun, sea and . . . a carefree time.

But they are being met at Cardiff International Airport by a group of women keen to keep them healthy while on vacation.

The Vale Youth Service has joined forces with the Family Planning Association Inroads drug agency, and the NHS Genito Urinary Medicine clinic in Cardiff, to offer advice and give-aways.

Clare Barnett from the Vale Youth Services said: "In the first three days of us being here, we saw 160 people.

We target 18 to 25-year-olds for our goody-bags, containing advice leaflets and free condoms.

But anyone can approach us.

We've even had parents asking for advice on dangers their younger teens may face."

Information about skin care in the sun is given via leaflets provided by Cancer UK.

And there are messages about protected sex and how to avoid the date-rape drug Rohypnol.

Usha Parmer, also of Vale Youth Services, added: "Although drug rape is increasing, with 178 reported cases in Spain alone last year, few know about it.

We're warning people to keep a look out."

And while everyone likes souvenirs, sexual health project worker with the Family Planning Association, Alex Waters, is hoping they stop at the straw donkeys.

She said: "STIs don't always show themselves.

We're not discouraging young people from having a good time, just to take care.

There are some diseases that never leave the body. That's an awful memento to bring home."

Clare added: "We've had a great response.

No-one has called us killjoys.

This is a unique scheme, but I would like to see it all across the country, as prevention is always better than cure."

If you would like more advice, the team will be in Cardiff International Airport lounge until the end of August.