Hertfordshire marks countdown to Smokefree Generation law
Last Wednesday marked an important milestone in Hertfordshire’s journey towards a smokefree future, with just 100 days to go until the landmark Smokefree Generation law comes into effect on 1 January 2027, protecting future generations from ever legally being sold tobacco and helping prevent a lifetime of addiction and ill health.
New figures highlight strong support for the landmark Smokefree Generation policy, with 66% of people in the East of England backing the measure. The findings also show the lasting impact of smoking addiction, with 78% of people who smoke saying they would not start smoking if they had the chance again.
From 1 January 2027, it will be illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. The legal age of sale will then rise by one year each year, creating a smokefree generation and gradually ending the sale of tobacco products across the UK.
The Smokefree Generation policy represents a major shift in the UK’s approach to tobacco – moving beyond helping people quit after they become addicted, towards preventing future generations from becoming addicted in the first place. The measure is expected to protect around four million young people nationally from tobacco within the next five years.
In Hertfordshire, smoking prevalence is already below the national average, with 8% of adults currently smoking. The new legislation aims to build on that progress by protecting young people from becoming addicted to tobacco in the future.
Cllr Ajanta Hilton, Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety, said: ‘On 1 January 2027, we will take a historic step towards a future where children growing up in Hertfordshire will never face the same risk of tobacco addiction as previous generations. The public support for this change shows that people recognise the importance of preventing smoking before it starts. The Smokefree Generation policy gives us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect young people from the devastating impact of tobacco and create a healthier future for our communities. With just 100 days to go, we are working closely with retailers and partners to help ensure the new law is implemented effectively across Hertfordshire.’
People who live or work in Hertfordshire can access free support to stop smoking through Hertfordshire’s Stop Smoking Service. Receive up to 12 weeks of personalised support from trained advisers, either in person or over the phone.
To find out more or register for support, visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/stopsmoking, call 0800 389 3998, or text SMOKEFREE to 80818.