In just 100 days’ time, Lincolnshire will take an important step towards a smokefree future.
From 1 January 2027, it will become illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. The age of sale will then increase by one year every year, eventually phasing out the sale of tobacco across the UK.
The landmark policy is designed to protect people from the harms of tobacco. If you smoke, you generally have an increased risk of contracting respiratory infections and of more severe symptoms once infected. Stopping smoking will bring immediate benefits to your health.
The new legislation represents a significant change in how tobacco is regulated across the UK. There is broad agreement that reducing smoking-related harm and helping young people avoid tobacco addiction can bring long-term benefits for health and wellbeing. Alongside these changes, support remains available for anyone who wants to quit smoking and improve their health.
Professor Trudi Grant, Director of Public Health, said: “No matter your age, being smokefree can help increase your chances of enjoying a healthier future.
“In a survey undertaken for public health charity ASH, 78% of people responding in the East Midlands said they regretted starting smoking. The changes coming in next year are intended to help reduce the number of young people who take up smoking in the future, while continuing to support existing smokers who want to quit.
“With just 100 days to go, retailers, local authorities and enforcement agencies will need to work together to prepare for these changes, so we can grasp this opportunity for a smokefree future.
“Stopping smoking is the one of the best things you can do for your health and wellbeing. For those smokers that do want to quit, our message is support is available.
“And with Stoptober just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to take that first step towards quitting for good.”
If you want to be smokefree, One You Lincolnshire offers a 12-week stop smoking programme, which will make you 4 times more likely to quit for good. They’ll look at your history, help you set goals and offer follow-up support and nicotine replacement therapy. You can find out more about their services at www.oneyoulincolnshire.org.uk.
Stoptober is a 28-day UK-wide challenge to stop smoking, held every October. If you stop smoking for 28 days evidence shows you’re 5 times more likely to stop for good!