The decision to ban single-use vapes is an important moment in supporting young people to stop vaping, but it also brings new challenges that we need to approach with clarity and care. While the ban sends a powerful message about the original purpose of vapes as smoking cessation tools, it doesn’t automatically reduce risk for young people.

Why supporting young people to stop vaping safely requires caution

Although the ban aims to protect young people, many are already accessing illegal, unregulated vapes. Consequently, we’re seeing dangerous products entering the hands of children — with some young people ending up in hospital after using vapes containing unknown or drug-laced substances. These stories are frightening, and they underscore the need for a balanced response.

Trading standards teams are working hard to crack down on illegal products, which is encouraging. However, once single-use vapes move fully underground, they may become even harder to monitor, making the risks far more severe.

A harm-reduction approach for young people experimenting with vaping

Through our partnership work, we’re beginning to design interventions focused on supporting young people to stop vaping altogether. This is the long-term goal. Yet we also have to recognise reality: young people are curious, influenced by peers, and often exposed to misinformation about what they are using.

Because of this, a harm-reduction approach is essential. This means:

• offering safe, judgment-free spaces for honest conversations

• educating young people about the risks of illegal and unregulated vapes

• helping them understand how to identify safer products if they choose to vape

• supporting them to make informed decisions rather than leaving them at risk

When we combine harm-reduction with prevention, behaviour change becomes more achievable — and far safer.

Creating honest, open dialogue that protects young people

Ultimately, supporting young people to stop vaping requires more than rules or bans. It demands relationships built on trust. When we speak honestly about the risks, motivations and pressures young people face, they are far more likely to engage, ask questions and seek support.

This is how we empower young people to make safer choices, and eventually choose to stop altogether.

Thanks for reading.

Why is supporting young people to stop vaping important?

Supporting young people to stop vaping is essential because many now access illegal or unsafe products. A harm-reduction, education-led approach reduces risks and encourages safer decisions.

How can we support young people who vape?

Support includes open conversations, education about illegal products, guidance on safer choices, and long-term behaviour change programmes that help young people stop vaping entirely.

See how we use a holistic, behavioural approach to help people achieve a healthier, smoke-free future!

Check out our stop-smoking services:

• Devon
• Sandwell
• Dorset
• Our truly integrated Healthy Lifestyle Service – Coventry
• Stop for Life App