The UK government is set to unveil a groundbreaking package of measures aimed at reducing smoking rates in England, including offering free e-cigarettes to pregnant women and financial incentives of up to £400 for those who quit smoking during pregnancy. The initiative, known as "swap to stop," was announced by Health Minister Neil O'Brien and is believed to be the first program of its kind worldwide.
Local trials have demonstrated that financial incentives combined with behavioural support can effectively encourage pregnant women to quit smoking. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has promised more information on how this scheme will operate in due course.
Additionally, the government plans to raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco products incrementally each year until no one can buy them within the country. This proposal seeks a gradual phase-out rather than an abrupt ban on tobacco sales.
As part of their ambitious "smoke-free" drive, the UK government aims at persuading one million smokers in England—nearly 20%—to switch from cigarettes to vapes through their new “swap-to-stop” scheme. Free starter kits will be provided alongside mandatory advice regarding quitting smoking printed on cigarette packs.
However, there are concerns surrounding vaping among younger individuals; Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) found that youth vaping rates increased from 3.3% in 2021 up to 7% last year among ages 11-17 years old. Balancing efforts between curbing underage vaping while ensuring adult access remains a challenge faced by DHSC officials.
Despite these innovative measures being praised as steps forward toward England's goal of becoming smoke-free by 2030, critics argue that further action will be necessary if this target is truly achievable.
In response, Neil O'Brien stated: "Our 'swap-to-stop' campaign represents our commitment towards making England smoke-free within this decade. While we acknowledge the challenges, we believe these new measures are an essential component of our comprehensive approach to tackling smoking."
The "swap-to-stop" scheme is estimated to cost £45 million over two years, with funding sourced from the DHSC's budget. As England seeks a healthier future for its citizens, all eyes will be on the effectiveness and impact of this pioneering initiative in the fight against tobacco addiction.