Vaping Information for Parents and Carers
Nationally, schools and colleges are reporting an increase in the problems associated with young people vaping.
We are concerned about the health implications of vaping with an increasing amount of research highlighting the dangers associated with it. Consequently, the College is working in partnership with Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health Team to give our students the facts about vaping and to offer support to those who want to give up this habit.
Students were asked to complete an anonymous survey about vaping. We are pleased to say that the results show that the vast majority of our students do not vape but there is a misperception amongst students that many more vape, when this is not the case.
Vaping - The Facts
The majority of vapes contain nicotine which is highly addictive and can impact on brain development in young people.
Short-terms symptoms of vaping include:
- coughing, dry mouth and throat
- mouth and throat irritation
- shortness of breath
- headaches
Vaping has not been around for long enough to know all the risks of long-term use. However, there is evidence that nicotine in vapes results in increased feelings of stress, anxiety, low mood and disturbed sleep in teenagers.
While vaping can help smokers quit, it is not harmless. The UK’s Chief Medical Officer says: “If you smoke, vaping is much safer; if you don’t smoke, don’t vape.”
Vaping - The Law
Selling vapes to under 18s is illegal. Buying vapes for under 18s is illegal.
There are also vapes that are being illegitimately produced and sold and these can contain even more harmful toxins than those purchased at licenced establishments or even a way that some people consume illegal drugs. The image below shows you how to spot an illegal vape.
Vaping to quit smoking
While vaping can help smokers quit, it is not harmless. The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty says: “If you smoke, vaping is much safer; if you don’t smoke, don’t vape.”
Adults who live with an under 19-year-old can access free 1:1 stop smoking support from the Smokefree Homes Service. Please contact them directly to get access to 1:1 support, free nicotine replacement and ongoing behavioural support whcnhs.smokefreehomes@nhs.net
What can parents or carers do?
Please talk to your teenager about vaping using the information in the leaflet available by clicking the button below.
Please also discuss with your teenager how they will refuse the offer of a vape or cigarette should this arise.
You can also find out more about vaping by going to www.talktofrank.com and searching “vape”.