The Children's Society shines a light on vaping risks for young people
The Children's Society highlights the health risks and exploitation links associated with vaping among young people in the UK.
The Children's Society has published an insightful blog post, 'Behind the smoke: How are vapes affecting young people?', highlighting the growing concerns around vaping among under-18s in the UK. Despite being illegal to sell to this age group, vaping is becoming increasingly prevalent, with worrying links to exploitation.
The article explains that vaping, which involves inhaling a mist from devices containing nicotine, flavourings, and other additives, has become popular partly due to its marketing as a 'safer' alternative to smoking and its appealing sweet flavours. However, this accessibility and appeal mask significant risks.
Key concerns for young people
- Nearly 1 in 10 secondary school pupils currently vape.
- 63% of young people believe vaping is as or more harmful than smoking.
- A quarter of 11 to 15-year-olds have tried vaping.
The Children's Society emphasises that while vapes may not contain the same harmful chemicals as traditional cigarettes, they do contain addictive nicotine. This can impair learning and concentration, and has been linked to increased anxiety and depression. Nicotine addiction can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and difficulty sleeping.
Beyond the health implications, the blog post raises a serious concern about the connection between vaping and exploitation. It notes an increase in teenagers being offered vapes by exploitative adults as a grooming tactic, sometimes leading to 'debt bondage' where young people feel obligated to those who provide them.
What can be done?
Open and non-judgemental communication is highlighted as crucial. Parents and carers are encouraged to engage in honest conversations with young people about the risks of vaping and the law, which prohibits selling vapes to under-18s. The article also stresses the importance of being a positive role model by making healthy lifestyle choices.
The Children's Society also points to new legislative measures aimed at protecting young people, including bans on advertising and restrictions on packaging designed to appeal to children. They also mention their own 'Break the Vape' programme in Essex, which supports young people in increasing nicotine awareness or reducing nicotine use.
CHURCH OF ENGLAND CHILDREN'S SOCIETY originally published this story. Eden is sharing it to help connect you with their ministry.