I begin this column by paying tribute to the work of Suffolk’s Trading Standards team in tackling a problem that has grown out of a solution to what can be done to curb smoking.
Vaping is a less harmful alternative to tobacco and plays an important role in helping people to give up smoking.
Unfortunately it is a solution with side effects because despite the best efforts of our trading standards teams here in Suffolk and elsewhere in the country, vaping among children is proving a lucrative market to traders.
Only last week we saw a business in Ipswich fined more than £1,000 and ordered to pay costs after an operation by Suffolk Trading Standards.
In Suffolk officers have previously seized vapes providing many times more than the legal limit of 600 puffs per device – some as high as 10,000.
Yet these devices are still being sold, and vaping products are still being sold to children despite the law on this being unequivocable - it is illegal to sell to under 18s.
Anyone selling illegal devices or to children can expect the full force of the law to be used against them if caught.
Trading Standards will advise businesses of their obligations in the first instance, but persistent reports of sales can result in further action being taken, as was the case with the shop in Ipswich.
The owner was brought to justice as a result of information from the police and complaints from parents to Trading Standards about what was going on.
Those parents did exactly the right thing as such information is key. I would urge anyone who is aware of any shops selling age restricted products to children, or oversized vapes, to report them to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice number of 0808 2231133.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes but is not risk-free. Health experts agree that anyone who does not already smoke should not start vaping.
Vaping is undoubtedly a better option for a persons health than smoking cigarettes. However, the long term risks are still unknown, so it is recommended that once ready, people also look to stop vaping. The long-term effects of inhaling vaporised chemicals are not yet fully understood but one of the primary concerns with vaping is the potential for lung damage. Although e-cigarettes don't produce tar like traditional cigarettes, they still contain harmful chemicals and toxins. The vapor from e-cigarettes can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory issues over time.
Vaping can also lead to nicotine addiction or even increase addiction levels in current smokers. Many e-cigarettes contain high levels of nicotine, which is highly addictive. This addiction can be challenging to break and may lead to continued use or even a return to smoking.
The government is taking steps to curb smoking in society through its Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will ensure that anyone turning 15 from 2024, or younger, will be banned from buying cigarettes. It also aims to make vapes less appealing to children.
Vaping among children is even more concerning due to its potential long-term health effects. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm brain development and increase the risk of addiction. Flavoured e-cigarettes appeal to younger demographics, normalising vaping use and potentially leading to a lifetime of addiction and health issues.
For those looking to quit smoking in Suffolk, seeking support is crucial. Suffolk's Feel Good Suffolk service, 'Feel Good Suffolk' offers resources and assistance to individuals looking to kick the habit.
Taking the first step towards quitting can be daunting, but it's essential to prioritise your health and well-being. While vaping may appear to be a better option than smoking traditional cigarettes, it still carries significant health risks that should not be overlooked. Seeking support from organisations like Feel Good Suffolk can provide the necessary assistance and resources to break free from smoking habits and embark on a healthier lifestyle.
