Efforts to reduce the number of young people vaping are being stepped up through a new campaign to help local schools become vape-free.
The council-led initiative sets out the potential health risks of vaping and was developed after school leaders expressed concern about the number of pupils using the nicotine-filled devices, which are designed to be used by adults as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes.
It is part of a wider campaign with a key message that vaping is not for children and not risk free.
The latest move aims to equip schools with resources to become vape-free settings. This includes materials for assemblies in secondary schools and training for professionals working with young people.
Over the past few years the council has seized hundreds of thousands of illegal vapes from local businesses, many containing dangerous chemicals and significantly higher levels of nicotine than found in legal devices.
More than 45 schools in the borough have already signed up for the new campaign, and more than 300 banners and signs have been distributed.
It comes as the government moves towards a total ban on all disposable vapes by 1 June 2025.
Councillor Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education, said: "We are proud to have introduced this initiative, especially as the rise in youth vaping is something that deeply worries me. It is becoming more evident on our streets, and I am particularly concerned about the impact on even younger siblings, who may see it as a trend to follow. We have to take action now to prevent this from escalating further and to protect the health of our young people. It has been encouraging to see so many schools sign up, but we need even more to get involved. Parents and carers also play a vital role in tackling this issue, and we urge them to stay informed and have open conversations with their children about the risks. Vaping is not always easy to spot, so awareness is key."
Councillor Daalat Ali, joint deputy leader and cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It is still essential that we need to warn people of the increase of underage vape users, in particular illegal vapes, which have now been proven to contain harmful chemicals. Last year our trading standards team seized nearly 20,000 illegal vapes from businesses and individuals selling potentially hazardous products to children.
Early Break, a Rochdale-based support service, has supported the campaign. Free support materials, including banners, amnesty boxes, certificates, and no-vaping signs, are available, with ongoing support for schools.
Ramsbottom Duck Race draws record crowds as event sells out
🟥 LIVE on Day Two from Vintage Vibes 2026 at the East Lancs Railway
Vintage Vibes turns Bury station into something you simply do not see anywhere else
RECAP from Vintage Vibes 2026 at the East Lancs Railway on Day One
Parents face over 12 days of more disruption as St Cuthbert’s strike action continues
Community groups across Oldham mark World Bee Day with local events
Oldham students paddle for children's hospital appeal
Oldham campaign aims to create 100 apprenticeships in 100 days
Andy Burnham launches election campaign in sunny Makerfield
Six-way battle looms for crucial final seat on Bury council in Moorside ward
Vintage Vibes returns to East Lancashire Railway with music and nostalgia packed weekend
Newhouse Academy receives national careers education award
Comments
Add a comment