Public health leaders in Calderdale are joining colleagues across the Yorkshire and the Humber region in their support of the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which has the potential to eradicate smoking within a generation.
The bill, being unveiled in Parliament today (20 March), aims to dramatically reduce smoking rates by prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009. This ensures anyone under 15 in 2024 will never legally purchase tobacco, even as adults.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Cllr Tim Swift, said:
“The deadly consequences of smoking are well documented, and smoking-related illnesses put huge pressure on our health services. We owe it to the younger generation to offer them protection from tobacco and its many health risks.
“We’re supporting the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill and its proposed measures, particularly raising the sales age. Most smokers start young and get trapped by addiction. The bill’s proposals, with strong public support, can break this cycle to create a smoke-free and healthier future for our children and subsequent generations.”
Smoking remains a significant public health challenge in the UK, causing serious illnesses and premature deaths. Data shows most smokers begin as teenagers. While vaping can help people stop smoking, it carries its own risks and children should never vape.
Calderdale Council’s Director of Public Health, Debs Harkins, said:
“The number of people dying from smoking-related deaths in Calderdale is higher than the national average, and smoking can have a devastating effect on your health and the health of those around you.
“We fully support the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. It has the power to save lives in our communities for generations. We also continue to support and implement preventative measures like stop smoking support and addressing youth vaping, to make significant progress towards a smoke-free future.”
Current smokers in Calderdale wanting to quit have access to lots of support and advice. Yorkshire Smokefree’s specialist advisors have helped thousands of people to give up the habit, by providing practical advice and access to medication. Visit https://calderdale.yorkshiresmokefree.nhs.uk(external link) or call 08006120011 free from landlines or 03306601166 free from most mobiles.
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