One million free vape starter kits to be offered in anti-smoking drive

The UK government is launching a new initiative to combat smoking and help people quit. Called “swap to stop”, the program will offer free vape starter kits to one million smokers, along with behavioural support to help them quit. Pregnant women will be eligible for up to £400 in support. The program is part of the UK government’s efforts to reduce the number of smokers in the country to 5% or less by 2030. The initiative is set to roll out in local authorities later this year.

In addition to the “swap to stop” program, the government is also introducing measures to combat the rising use of vapes by young people. A new enforcement squad, backed by £3 million in funding, will be created to enforce the rules on vaping and tackle illegal vapes and underage sales. The squad will be led by Trading Standards and work across the country. The government is also launching a “Call for Evidence” to identify opportunities to reduce youth vaping while keeping vapes available as a quit aid for adult smokers.

Health Minister Neil O’Brien said that the priority is to prevent people from smoking and support them to quit. While vaping is a preferable alternative to smoking for adults, the government is concerned about the rise in youth vaping, particularly the use of disposable vaping products. The illicit vapes enforcement squad will focus on clamping down on businesses that sell vapes to children, which is illegal, and get them hooked on nicotine. The “Call for Evidence” will allow the government to understand the steps it can take to reduce the number of children accessing and using vapes.

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