The purpose of this report is to update the Health and Wellbeing Board on the actions taken to work towards achieving a Smoke Free Generation (SFG) in Herefordshire, including the new Tobacco Control Alliance, and request sign-off from the board on the new Tobacco Control Plan.

The Consultant in Public Health introduced the item and explained that the purpose of the Tobacco Control Plan was to reduce smoking prevalence and create a ‘smokefree generation’ in Herefordshire by 2030.

The Public Health Lead – Healthy Behaviours delivered the presentation ‘Tobacco Control Report’, including slides on: Background; Expected Impact; Tobacco Control Plan (including the four workstreams of prevention, supporting smokers to quit, eliminating variations in smoking rates, and effective enforcement); Measuring Progress (including reducing the number of adult smokers, reducing smoking rates among individuals with a long-term mental health condition, increasing the number of quit dates set, and reducing the number of children and young people who vape); and Recommendations. 

The Public Health Officer (Tobacco Control) drew attention to Appendix 1 to the report, ‘Planned Actions 2025 – 2030’, and explained that the next quarterly Tobacco Control Alliance meeting would consider indicators/measurements that were currently identified as ‘to be confirmed’ and would work with partners to assign the responsible service(s).

The Chairperson commented on the ‘Smokefree Sidelines’ initiative which encouraged people not to smoke at local youth football matches.

In response to questions from board members, the Public Health Officer (Tobacco Control) reported that:

1.           Work had been undertaken through the Healthy Schools programme to engage with students about vaping, but it was recognised that there was more to be done.  The Chairperson commented on the number of children and young people who vape and expressed concern about potential long-term implications.

2.           The Tobacco Control Alliance included representation from the Trading Standards department, reflecting ongoing efforts to stop underage sales.  It was noted that the Tobacco and Vapes Bill intended to place additional controls in connection with tobacco, vapes and other products.

Resolved:  That

a)      the new Tobacco Control Plan for Herefordshire and the roadmap to achieve a Smokefree Herefordshire by 2030 be supported;

b)      actions to deliver on the Smokefree Herefordshire 2030 strategic priorities, including building strong place-based partnerships to achieve our Smokefree ambition, be supported; and

c)      an annual report from the Tobacco Control Alliance, on progress against the planned actions of the Tobacco Control Plan, be added to the work programme for the board.