Children to be Better Protected from Second-Hand Smoking & Vaping

The government is launching a consultation on extending smoke-free places and introducing vape-free and heated tobacco-free spaces

Children and medically vulnerable people will be better protected under plans to ban smoking from playgrounds, schools and hospitals. 

The government has today launched a public consultation to seek views on stopping people smoking, vaping or using heated tobacco in public playgrounds and education settings in England.  

Areas outside healthcare locations – such as hospitals - would also become smoke-free and heated tobacco-free under the proposals.   

Indoor spaces, where smoking is already banned, would also become vape-free and heated tobacco-free, subject to consultation.   

Outdoor hospitality settings, including pub gardens, and open public spaces are not included in the proposals. Private homes and private outdoor spaces are also out of scope.    

These proposals form part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to shift the focus of the NHS from sickness to prevention, tackling the root causes of ill health and reducing long-term pressure on services. 

Second-hand smoke is harmful even outdoors, with children and medically vulnerable people at greatest risk. By acting in places where young people gather and patients receive care, the government aims to prevent avoidable harm before it happens and support a healthier generation.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Wes Streeting, said: 

This consultation marks an important step towards implementing the landmark Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will create a smoke-free generation and protect young people from a lifetime of addiction. The Bill is currently progressing through Parliament.    

There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke, and children, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable.  

Short term exposure can cause immediate symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing and headaches, while long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of chronic disease. 

Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England said: 

It will also seek views on setting outdoor boundaries, exemptions, designated smoking areas and how to inform people of restrictions to ensure the rules are proportionate and workable.  

There will be a minimum of six months between any regulations being made and them coming into force, with guidance available on how to make sure people are aware of and follow the rules. 

Enforcement would mirror existing smoke-free laws, where compliance has historically been extremely high.   

Business Minister Kate Dearden, said: 

Dr Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of British Heart Foundation, said: 

Cancer Research UK’s Executive Director of Policy and Information, Dr Ian Walker, said: 

Hazel Cheeseman, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health, said:

Peter Roderick, Spokesperson for Addiction for the Association of Directors of Public Health, said:

Sarah Sleet, Chief Executive at Asthma + Lung UK, said: