News Release
09 June 2009

A DVD aimed at encouraging young people to help reduce the spread of HIV has been officially launched.

Safer Txt was produced by South Gloucestershire Council, NHS South Gloucestershire and HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) and features animation by a team of students from the University of the West of England’s school of creative arts. 

Comedian and actor Rik Mayall gave his time to provide the voices for the short film, which promotes the use of condoms to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

The script was prepared by staff of the council, the NHS and THT, and was then approved by THT’s local Young Leaders group.

The DVD is accompanied by a booklet, written by THT, which sets out a number of frequently asked questions and answers and also aims to dispel some of the common myths about HIV.

Teachers and youth workers can use the booklet and DVD with the young people they work with, or take advantage of training being offered by THT.

Councillor Matthew Riddle, South Gloucestershire Council’s executive member for community care and housing, said: “HIV has been around for a long time now and it’s vital that our young people do not become complacent about preventing it. This project is a great example of what young people can do to help educate their peers about an important issue.

“It has also given some local students the chance to showcase their talents and shows how organisations can work together to tackle an issue.”

The DVD could help young people right across the country, and even abroad. It is being made available free to any other local authorities or bodies who feel they can make use of it and has already been sent to health promotion experts in Holland.