Children 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 in 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!”
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 three times more likely to take up the habit themselves.
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.
Read more here: https://liverpoolexpress.co.uk/ban-on-single-use-vapes-from-1-june-2025/
For support to quit smoking contact Smokefree Liverpool at: Tel 0151 374 2535, Text QUIT1 to 61825 or visit www.smokefreeliverpool.co.uk
