Implementing Comprehensive HIV/STI Programmes with Sex Workers Implementing Comprehensive HIV/STI Programmes with | Page 105

4 Condom and Lubricant Programming condoms, providing condoms and lubricants in “safe spaces” (drop-in centres),9 through community outreach workers and as part of health services. Sex worker organizations may also want to work with managers and owners of sex work venues to involve them in condom distribution. Sex workers should be engaged from start to finish in planning, mapping and implementing condom and lubricant distribution points. Table 4.2 provides key questions that implementing organizations should ask in planning for adequate supplies of condoms for sex workers. Table 4.2 Condom supply planning questions Questions Potential answers From what types of outlets do community members prefer to obtain condoms? (Place strategy) • Sex worker “safe spaces” (drop-in centres) • Community outreach workers • Shops, pharmacies • Medical clinics, doctors, hospitals • Bars, guest houses, hotels, brothels • Workplaces • Truck stops, bus stops What types of condoms do sex workers prefer? (Price strategy) • Free public-sector condoms • Social marketing condoms • Commercial condoms • Others? How close are condom outlets to the community? (Accessibility) • Very close (1-5 minute [min.] walk) • Close (10-20 min. walk) • Far (30-45 min. walk) • Very far (1 hour or more) Do these outlets always have condoms to provide? (Availability) Male condoms: Yes/No Female condoms: Yes/No Water- or silicone-based lubricants: Yes/No How many condoms do sex workers and clients have access to weekly? (Current level) Number of condoms per sex worker: Male condoms: Female condoms: Lubricants: How many do they need to access? Unmet need (right quantity?) Number of condoms required per sex worker monthly: What are the most common problems sex workers report with male condoms (Right quality?) • Breakage • Slippage • Condom has bad smell • Condom is expired • Condom package is damaged • Other What are the most common problems sex workers experience with female condoms (Right quality?) • Condom has bad smell • Condom is expired • Condom package is damaged • Other Are condom-compatible lubricants always available at condom distribution points? Yes/No 9 A safe space (drop-in centre) is a place where sex workers may gather to relax, meet other community members and hold social events, meetings or training. See Chapter 3, Section 3.3 for details. 83