A declaration to move towards creating a smokefree society has been signed by the Isle of Wight Council.
In signing the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control, the Council showed its commitment to protecting residents from the harm caused by smoking.
Smoking remains the single leading cause of preventable ill-health and early death on the Isle of Wight. Up to two in three smokers will die as a result of smoking.
The Declaration was signed by Councillor Phil Jordan, council leader, Wendy Perera, chief executive, councillor Debbie Andre, cabinet member for adult social care and public health and Simon Bryant, director of public health.
The agreement to sign the Declaration was approved by Cabinet on 14 March 2024.
The Council, as the public health authority, leads local action to tackle smoking and youth vaping. This is achieved by;
- commissioning the community stop smoking service, Smokefree Island;
- working together to reduce vaping providing information and support
- lead alongside key partners on the Island to stop people starting smoking and support smokers to quit.
Mr Bryant said:
"Signing the Declaration will strengthen the council’s leadership role while working with local partners. Together we can achieve a smokefree 2030 and culture-change where smoking becomes history.
"This Declaration is a clear signal that we will continue to prioritise smoking as a major public health issue.
"Although the numbers of people smoking on the Island are in decline, there are still 11,000 smokers living here. There is more work to be done, especially for groups in highest need."
Cllr Andre added:
"Signing the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control is a huge step.
"The council is showing commitment to reducing smoking in our communities, alongside delivering the national target of being Smokefree by 2030.
"For Islanders wanting to quit smoking, there is a wide range of support available. Getting expert support from your local stop smoking service means you’re three times as likely to quit for good.”
For free expert advice on quitting smoking, contact Smokefree Island at (01983) 642369 or 0800 999 1396. Alternatively, text “Quit” to 66777" or click here.
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