The draft Tobacco Harm Reduction Strategy drafted in line with the national ambition of creating a healthier smoke-free society by 2030, will give residents the chance to have their say as part of a new public consultation.
Havering Council has unveiled a draft Tobacco Harm Reduction Strategy aimed at tackling the health and societal impacts of smoking and vaping in the borough over the next five years. Residents are being urged to share their views through a public consultation open until 31 March 2025.
Aligned with the national goal of achieving a smoke-free society by 2030, the strategy highlights the severe health risks posed by smoking, which remains a leading cause of preventable illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and lung disorders. The council’s initiative seeks to address local challenges in reducing tobacco and vaping harm while acknowledging the addictive nature of tobacco, which makes quitting difficult for many smokers.
Although vaping is recognised as less harmful than smoking, concerns are growing over its long-term effects, particularly among younger people.
Although vaping is recognised as less harmful than smoking, concerns are growing over its long-term effects, particularly among younger people. Smoking not only affects personal health but also leads to lost working days and places a strain on local and national welfare systems due to smoking-related illnesses.
The council has outlined several priorities in its five-year plan. These include offering robust support to smokers aiming to quit, discouraging young residents from taking up smoking or vaping, creating smoke-free public spaces, and cracking down on the availability of illegal tobacco products.
Councillor Gillian Ford, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, stressed the urgency of collective action. “Tobacco smoking and vaping are causing ill-health and cutting lives short,” she said. “The draft Tobacco Harm Reduction Strategy does not stand alone. The Council will collaborate with organisations and services to support smokers in quitting, establish smoke-free environments, and address the rise in vaping among young people.”
Drawing on personal experience, Councillor Ford added, “Having lost an aunt to lung cancer, I know just how much smoking can impact us all. I encourage residents to have their say on our plans by taking part in the consultation.”
The council aims to understand the full extent of smoking and vaping’s impact, not just on individual health but on the borough’s overall well-being. Feedback from the consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the final strategy.
Residents can participate in the consultation until Monday, 31 March 2025, and contribute to a healthier, smoke-free Havering.
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