Stop smoking

Every year fewer people smoke. But when people do start smoking, or vaping, they often get addicted because nicotine is one of the most addictive substances in the world.

The younger you start smoking, the more damage your body will suffer.

Crucial: If someone gives you cigarettes or encourages you to smoke, they are harming you, and may be trying to exploit you. 

Risks of smoking

Smokers are more likely to die and get serious diseases like diabetes, heart disease or dementia.  

• Smoking harms your lungs and ability to breathe
• Smoking releases cancer causing chemicals
• Smoking damages circulation and senses, including sight

Smoking harms your health. 

Take action: You can download the NHS Stop Smoking App for tips, support and motivation to quit. 

Quitting smoking

Although most people don't start smoking, if they do start smoking, it can be difficult to stop. 

Many people can stop on their own, but if you need support there is lots of support available. 

If you need support to stop smoking:

1. Speak to your School/ College Health Nurse 
2. Contact Stop for Life Oxfordshire 
3. Speak to a pharmacist

You can also ask your GP for advice, medication and and support to help you quit. 

Crucial: Whenever you get medical help for any reason, you may be asked about smoking. This is a great opportunity to get extra support to quit. 

Lots of other support is available:

1. Visit NHS Quit Smoking  
2. Get your free personal quit plan
3. Download the free NHS Quit Smoking app

Experience: I felt I needed to quit because it was expensive and my running speed went down. So I told my friends I was quitting and they shouldn't give me any more cigarettes. Just like that. They all supported me even though they were carrying on smoking; they were my friends and good people and they understood and supported me. I have been happily smoke-free for over three years now. James, 19

The law

It is illegal to purchase tobacco for or on behalf of a person aged under 18.

• It is illegal for adults to buy tobacco products for anyone aged under 18
• Smoking is banned in workspaces and public places
• Smoking is banned in cars carrying children under the age of 18

Smoking laws are becoming more protective over time as fewer people smoke. 

Crucial: Shops selling to children can be fined or closed. You can report any business selling age-restricted products to underage people via Trading Standards.   

Vaping and alternatives

Alternatives to cigarettes such as shisha, chewing tobacco, snus, tobacco pouches and rollups are also very bad for your health. 

E-cigarettes are used by some adults to help quit smoking, or as a safer alternative. 

Crucial: Some nicotine products can contain enough nicotine to cause poisoning if they are from an unregulated seller. No tobacco products should be left in a place accessible by children.