Stop smoking support available ahead of introduction of new regulations
Ahead of the introduction of new smoking regulations in Northern Ireland, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging smokers to use the upcoming change of rules as motivation to quit smoking.
From 1 February, regulations will extend current smoke-free provisions to private vehicles where children and young people aged under 18 are present, when there is more than one person in the vehicle, and the vehicle is enclosed. It will be an offence to smoke in such a vehicle and will also be an offence for a driver to fail to prevent smoking in a smoke-free private vehicle.
In addition, from the same date, it will be an offence to sell nicotine inhaling products, such as e-cigarettes or vapes, to children and to purchase, or attempt to purchase, such products on behalf of a child (a proxy purchasing offence).
Health Minister Robin Swann said: “We must do all we can to protect the health of our children and young people so I am very pleased to see the introduction of these new regulations. I would urge smokers to use the introduction of the new regulations as an impetus to give up smoking.
“In particular, I would appeal to parents who smoke to take this opportunity to quit, for the good of your children’s health and your own. You can get help and support to stub out cigarettes for good.”
Free support is available through the local PHA-funded Stop Smoking Services to help smokers on their path to quitting.
Colette Rogers, Strategic Lead for Tobacco Control with the PHA said: “Smokers can use the introduction of the new regulations as motivation to quit smoking and we can offer support. Giving up smoking not only protects your health but also protects your family from the harmful and unpleasant effects of smoking. Over 80% of smoke is invisible. None of it is safe.”
A range of services are available across Northern Ireland that can help and support people to quit.
“Studies have shown that you are four times more likely to quit with help. Experienced stop smoking staff provide a friendly, supportive service and will help design a stop smoking plan that will work best for you to make your quit attempt as easy as possible,” said Colette
“Services are offered through many community pharmacies, GP practices, HSC Trust premises, community and voluntary organisations and by Cancer Focus NI.”
Due to the current pandemic, measures have been put in place to ensure continued access to PHA-funded Stop Smoking Services while still following social distancing guidelines, this includes telephone contact or video calls. These measures will ensure you can still access Stop Smoking Services in a way which is safe and easy for you.
For more information on the free services located close to where you live and useful tips to stop smoking, visit the PHA’s www.stopsmokingni.info
Information on the new regulations can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/smoking-and-vaping-regulations-northern-ireland