Blackpool 'pushing for a smoke-free generation'

Town hall leaders are supporting an updated statement of commitment towards addressing harm from smoking after the pledge was refreshed to reflect the Government’s Smoke-free 2030 ambition.

More than 120 councils have signed up to the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control since its launch in May 2013.

Blackpool's Council's action plan includes "starting conversations with major organisations in Blackpool to introduce Smoke-free areas in places which are deemed family friendly."

The resort led the way when it designated its children's playgrounds as smoke-free back in 2012.

Coun Jo Farrell, cabinet member for adult social care and community health and wellbeing, said: "Pushing for a smoke free generation is a goal we are completely committed to.”

The most recent figures show more than 23 per cent of adults in Blackpool smoke, compared to just under 14 per cent in England as a whole.

Government figures show people living in deprived areas are four times more likely to smoke than those living in wealthier areas, impacting outcomes for diseases such as lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Blackpool Council’s campaigns also include helping people give up smoking including with free nicotine replacement therapy, and encouraging pregnant women to stop smoking.

The council is also working with schools to discourage vaping and use of e-cigarettes, and tackling the sale of illegal tobacco and under-age cigarette sales.

Coun Farrell added: "Stopping smoking can be very challenging. But when you have access to the right support, you are up to three times more likely to succeed."