This week I visited St George’s Academy in Sleaford to meet with the Headteacher, students and Lincolnshire police officers to understand their perspectives on the increase in teen vaping in the town and the use of disposable vapes in particular. It was interesting to see how teen vaping is having an impact in our local schools following my recent work in Parliament where I have been highlighting the issue, including through my Ten Minute Rule Bill on the topic.
It is clear that the popularity of disposable vapes is exploding amongst young people through their appealing bright colours, enticing names and sweet flavours. NHS figures from 2022 show that nearly one in ten 11-15 year olds vape. The figures show that the likelihood of children vaping rises sharply with age, with almost one in five 15 year olds vaping.
I am pleased that the Government are listening to calls for more to be done about these issues and are introducing the new illicit vapes enforcement squad and a call for evidence on the matter. Nevertheless, I am continuing to work with Ministers across Government to explore where we can go further. My proposals include looking at stricter advertising rules, introducing the same regulations for vaping as smoking when in public places, adopting Challenge 25, sales licensing, considering flavours/colours and providing educational programmes.
I am grateful to St George’s Academy for welcoming me into the school to see how they feel we can address problems surrounding children vaping and what more can be done to support local schools in tackling the problem.
(Pictured here with Laranya Caslin, Headteacher & Sgt Stuart Mumby-Croft)
