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The Rise of Disposable vape Among Children

The number of children using e-cigarettes has alarmingly tripled over the past three years. Strong evidence indicates that cheap and easy-to-use disposable e-cigarettes play a significant role in this trend.

Current Statistics

Our research reveals that in 2023, approximately 69% of e-cigarette users aged 11-17 in the UK will opt for disposable devices. This marks a drastic increase from just 7.7% in 2021. Such a rise is concerning, especially given the unknown long-term health effects of e-cigarettes and the addictive nature of nicotine.

While e-cigarettes can aid adult smokers in quitting, the NHS clearly advises against vaping for non-smokers, especially children.

Our Commitment to Protecting Youth Health

To safeguard the health of children in and out of school, we are implementing several measures aimed at preventing vaping and smoking among young people.

Are Disposable E-Cigarettes Banned?

Yes, the sale and supply of disposable e-cigarettes are now banned in England, Scotland, and Wales. This decision stems from the realization that these products appeal greatly to young people. Northern Ireland is also considering similar regulations in the near future.

Moreover, we are enhancing regulations concerning e-cigarette flavors, packaging, and store displays. These changes aim to make e-cigarettes less attractive to children.

To combat underage sales, trading standards officers will receive the authority to issue on-the-spot fines of up to £100 for selling tobacco and e-cigarettes to minors in England and Wales. This ban follows a public consultation that showed nearly 70% of respondents—including parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals—supporting this critical measure.

Adults can still utilize non-disposable e-cigarettes as a tool to help them quit smoking.

Timeline for the Disposable E-Cigarette Ban

We aim to implement legislation banning disposable e-cigarettes as quickly as possible. Any new law will incorporate a buffer period of at least 6 months to allow businesses to adapt to these changes.

Initiatives to Prevent Youth Smoking

To further protect young people, we are making it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. This measure means that children aged 15 and under will be unable to legally purchase tobacco this year. By preventing young people from starting to smoke, we hope to protect an entire generation from the harmful effects associated with smoking.

Strategies to Address Vaping in Schools

Schools are legally required to establish a behavior policy that outlines expectations for students, including items prohibited on school grounds. Some educational institutions have already instituted a vaping ban.

In Relationships, Sexuality, and Health Education (RSHE), students in both primary and secondary schools learn about the risks associated with legal and illegal harmful substances, including smoking, alcohol, and drugs.

We are currently reviewing the RSHE curriculum to strengthen content regarding smoking and vaping. A public consultation on these revisions will be launched soon.

Additionally, we have developed teacher training resources that specifically address drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, including a focus on vaping and e-cigarettes.

Conclusion: Protecting Our Youth

The rapid increase in disposable e-cigarette use among children is a pressing concern. By implementing bans and educational initiatives, we aim to prevent young people from starting to vape or smoke. The commitment to protecting our youth remains strong, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely. It’s crucial for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to work together in safeguarding the health of future generations.