Newsroom

30 November 2022

Concerns on the rising use of E-cigarettes (Vapes) by children and young people

Dr Arif Rajpura, Blackpool Council’s Director of Public Health has expressed concern that national statistics on the usage of E-cigarettes and vapes by children and young people show an increase again this year and that local schools in Blackpool are also indicating that this is as an ongoing trend.

Multi-coloured E-cigarettes vector
E-cigarettes
String richText

Statistics from the ASH survey (Action on Smoking and Health) in July 2022 showed the following increasing use of E-cigarettes (vapes) among young people in Great Britain:

  • In 2022, 15.8% of 11-17 year olds had tried vaping, compared to 11.2% in 2021 and 13.9% in 2020
  • In 2022, 7.0% of 11-17 year olds were current users, compared to 3.3% in 2021 and 4.1% in 2020

Dr Rajpura supports the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) position which recommends that children, young people and young adults who do not smoke should be discouraged from experimenting with or regularly using E-cigarettes.

He said:

Quote quote
“Through initial discussions with local schools about the ASH statistics it was worrying to hear many were indicating increased usage of these products by children and young people. We are awaiting the results of a survey by SHEU (Schools and Students Health Education Unit) to understand the local picture in Blackpool and the council has also commissioned further local community work with Healthwatch to gain more in-depth information. “E-cigarettes are an age-restricted product because there is potential for users to become addicted to nicotine-containing e-cigarettes. Vaping is not a risk free alternative, particularly for those who have never smoked and we do not yet know the long-term effects of vaping on health. “Further research is required on this subject but vaping should be discouraged and it is important for families, guardians and schools to support this message. Locally we offer schools full Personal, Social & Health education support around education for children and young people and support their safeguarding policies.”
String richText

Dr Rajpura also reaffirmed that anyone who sells cigarettes or vape products containing nicotine or tobacco to under-18s, or buys them on behalf of anyone under 18, is breaking the law. Enforcement of laws on underage sales, sales of illegal products, and point of sale advertising are the responsibility of Blackpool Trading Standards. Complaints can be reported to tradingstandards@blackpool.gov.uk

All other complaints about advertising, including on social media should be reported to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

More information and details on the Blackpool Smokefree helpline and services for those smoking and vaping.

Related news stories