Smoking and Vaping

Staff play a key role in helping young people make informed and healthy choices. Providing clear, age-appropriate education about smoking, vaping, alcohol, and substance use empowers young people to understand the risks and make decisions that support their wellbeing. Open, respectful communication helps ensure that accurate information is shared in a way that builds trust and promotes safety.

Some young people may already be smoking when they arrive at the Home. Staff should respond with empathy and understanding, recognising that smoking may be a coping strategy or part of their lived experience. The focus should be on supporting the young person’s readiness for change, encouraging them to explore healthier alternatives, and celebrating any steps they take toward reducing or stopping smoking.

Support is available through the Looked After Children’s Nurse, the young person’s GP, or local stop smoking services. These options should be discussed collaboratively with the young person and their social worker, and included in their Health Plan in a way that reflects their voice and preferences.

Staff must not provide or purchase cigarettes, tobacco, or related materials for young people. This boundary is in place to protect their health and wellbeing.

For further guidance, see: Rules about Tobacco, E-Cigarettes and Smoking (GOV.UK).

It is illegal for shops to sell e-cigarettes to under-18s or for adults to purchase them on their behalf. While some young people may already be using e-cigarettes, staff should approach this with curiosity and compassion, seeking to understand the context and offering support tailored to the young person’s needs.

The long-term health effects of vaping are still being studied, and it should be regarded as potentially harmful. Staff should encourage young people to consider reducing or stopping vaping if they feel ready, and help them access appropriate support through the LAC Nurse, GP, or local services. These conversations should be part of a trauma-informed Health Plan that prioritises the young person’s voice and autonomy.

If a young person expresses interest in using e-cigarettes as a step toward quitting smoking, staff should guide them toward professional support rather than facilitating access themselves.

Staff must not purchase or provide e-cigarettes or vaping materials to young people.

For more information, see: Electronic Cigarettes - Evidence and Advice on e-cigarettes (GOV.UK).

Quit Smoking – NHS 

Using E-Cigarettes to Stop Smoking – NHS