Single use vapes to be banned in the UK as youth vaping rises
Disposable vapes have emerged as a major driver behind the alarming increase in youth vaping. The proportion of 11 to 17-year-old vapers using disposables has risen dramatically in the last two years alone.
As part of the comprehensive plan, the government will introduce new restrictions to vape flavours that specifically target children and require manufacturers to adopt plainer, less enticing packaging. Additionally, measures will be implemented to conceal vapes in shops, ensuring they are not prominently displayed and are kept away from products appealing to children, such as sweets.
To combat underage sales, fines will be imposed on shops in England and Wales found illegally selling vapes to minors. Trading Standards officers will be granted authority to take immediate action against underage tobacco and vape sales, complementing existing penalties.
Furthermore, the ban will extend to vaping alternatives like nicotine pouches, which are increasingly popular among youth despite their highly addictive nature.
The government has reiterated its commitment to creating a smoke-free generation, pledging to introduce legislation preventing the sale of tobacco to individuals born on or after 1st January 2009. Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable deaths in the UK, claiming approximately one in four cancer-related deaths and resulting in 80,000 fatalities annually. The government argues that preventing young people from starting smoking will not only safeguard the current generation but also protect future young people from the damaging effects of smoking-related illnesses as they age.
To reinforce efforts, an additional £30 million in annual funding will be allocated to key agencies such as Border Force, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), and Trading Standards. This funding aims to strengthen measures against illicit trade and ensure the effective implementation of the government's initiatives to curb smoking and vaping among young people.
The ban on disposable vapes represents a significant stride towards safeguarding the health and well-being of young people and realising the vision of a smoke-free generation in the UK.
In addition to governmental actions, our Youthwatch group is currently running an independent survey on vaping among11-25 year-olds. If you are a young person, we'd like you to take part. The survey takes around 5 minutes to complete and is anonymous. Your input will be used as part of the Youthwatch vaping project and will help us to find out the effects of vaping on young people.
