The LGA has called for an extension to the proposed ban on smoking and vaping in children’s playgrounds to include all playgrounds, not just those managed by councils.
Responding to a government consultation on smoke-free and vape-free spaces, the LGA warned that excluding publicly accessible playgrounds that are not managed by local authorities – such as those in new housing estates, national parks and country parks – risks gaps in protection and exposing children to harmful second-hand smoke and vapour.
The LGA has also called for: mandatory minimum standards for signage; clear guidance on the siting of designated smoking and vaping areas to minimise concentrated exposure at entrances and boundaries; an extension of the vaping exemption to include all commissioned smoking cessation services to support people with quitting smoking; and adequate funding to cover local authority enforcement.
Cllr Dr Wendy Taylor MBE, Chair of the LGA’s Health and Wellbeing Committee, said: “No child should be exposed to second-hand smoke or vapour clouds in public spaces designed for their health, education and play.
“Reducing the visibility of smoking and vaping is an important step in our approach to prevention.
“Many councils are already introducing smoke- and vape-free spaces, particularly play spaces, sports sidelines and school gates.
“National consistency across settings would help protect children, health and care patients, and non-users from harmful exposure. Councils must be adequately funded to implement and enforce these measures.”
See the LGA’s latest briefings and consultation responses on the LGA website.