Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

CHIKSREN and young people in Liverpool are taking a stand for their health with a clear message:- "Don't smoke or vape in our play areas!"

As part of Liverpool's Smokefree Play Areas initiative, new smoke and vape free signs are being installed in 60 parks across the City.

The new standout design, created by Abbie-Grace Breen, a year 5 pupil, at Emmaus Primary School, Croxteth, was selected from over 240 entries and boldly states:- "Don't smoke or vape in our park, we like to play in clear air!"

9 year old Abbie Grace Breen said:- "Me and my friends don't like seeing adults smoking or vaping in playgrounds it's meant to be a fun place just for kids. Someone might be smoking or vaping, and we could just be playing, and it will make us really sick I'm really happy that my drawing was chosen for the signs, and I hope it helps remind people to keep our play areas smoke and vape free!"

Originally launched in 2013, the Smokefree Play Areas initiative was introduced to prevent smoking in spaces where children play, supporting their wellbeing and encouraging healthier lifestyles from a young age.

Now, with growing concerns about vaping around young people, it is being expanded to include:- e-cigarettes, ensuring that playgrounds remain free from both smoke and vape exposure.

Studies show that children raised in environments where smoking is normalised are 3 times more likely to take up the habit themselves.

Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture Councillor Harry Doyle, said:- "Creating smoke and vape free play areas is about protecting the health and wellbeing of our children. No child should have to breathe in second-hand smoke or be exposed to vaping while they play. By expanding this initiative, alongside the recent ban on disposable vapes, we are taking meaningful action to reduce waste, reduce vaping amongst young people, and ensure that playgrounds are safe, healthy environments for children to enjoy. This is an important step in fostering a cleaner, healthier Liverpool for future generations."

As part of the City's wider:- 'Tobacco Control Strategy,' this initiative not only creates a healthier environment for children but also plays a crucial role in reducing smoking and vaping in front of young people, making it less likely that they will pick up the habit.

The inclusion of vapes in this initiative follows the ban on disposable vapes, introduced just yesterday, to help reduce waste and tackle the sharp rise in vaping among young people.

For support to quit smoking, contact:- Smokefree Liverpool' by calling them on:- 01513742535, Text:- 'QUIT1' to:- 61825, or visit:- SmokeFreeLiverpool.Co.UK.