Vaping in young people

Vapes, or e-cigarettes, are devices that enable users to inhale nicotine in vapour, generated by heating a liquid (e-liquid), rather than smoke. In the UK it is illegal to sell vapes to under-18s; however, data shows that the number of children and young people using vapes is rising.

Quitting smoking using vapes

Vaping or e-cigarettes are promoted to adults who already smoke as a way to reduce or quit smoking. Using an e-cigarette can help you manage your nicotine cravings.

E-liquids come in different nicotine strengths, so you control how much nicotine you need to help with cravings and other withdrawal symptoms, such as feeling irritable and having low mood.

More information about quitting smoking using e-cigarettes can be found on the NHS website - Better Health.

Vaping use in young people

Young people should be discouraged from vaping, especially if they do not smoke cigarettes. There are concerns about nicotine addiction, the unknown health effects of vapes and illicit content.

The following video from our drugs and alcohol support service explains everything that you need to know about vaping.

It is illegal to sell vapes to under-18s and it is also illegal for an adult to purchase them for someone who is under-18.

Bromley Council is working to deter young people from taking up vaping through the education of young people and their parents or carers, and by enforcing legislation around selling e-cigarettes.

If you suspect that someone is selling vapes to children (or adults are purchasing on their behalf), and/or that the vapes are illicit, please contact trading standards with as much detail as possible or call 0808 223 1133 (via Citizens Advice Consumer service). If you have any concerns about the side effects of a vape you can report it to the Medicine and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) Yellow Card reporting site.