The Health Improvement Commission has conducted extensive public-engagement research to gather opinions on potential future tobacco policy measures, which would aim to reduce smoking rates. The consultation involved a survey completed by 906 adults and focus groups with 30 young people. The findings reveal strong public support for 11 potential new policies
.89% of Guernsey adults support banning smoking in children’s playgrounds
79% of Guernsey adults support banning smoking in transit areas such as covered bus shelters
73% of Guernsey adults support raising the legal age of tobacco sales from 18 to 21
66% of Guernsey adults support banning smoking in outdoor areas of sports venues
65% of Guernsey adults support banning smoking in outdoor areas of restaurants and cafés
All 11 proposed policies received support from more than 50% of respondents. The focus groups with young people showed that they were supportive of new measures aimed at reducing smoking rates and provided a deeper insight into their views. Key insights included:
Support for Smoke-Free Spaces: Strong support for creating more smoke-free public spaces, especially in areas frequented by children.
One individual noted, “That’s the thing like, round kids’ parks and stuff like that, I reckon that’s where it should stop ‘cause if you’re a young nipper and you see it and smoke coming out of someone’s mouth, you might just think that’s cool.”
Extend Smoking Bans: Support for extending indoor smoking bans to outdoor areas of restaurants and cafés.
Raise the Age for Buying Tobacco: Support for raising the age of sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21.
Restrict Tobacco Retailers: Strong belief that there are too many tobacco retailers, with suggestions to reduce their number, especially near schools.
Address Duty-Free Tobacco Sales: Concerns that duty-free tobacco provides a cheaper source often sold to young people, undermining price control measures.
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