From 1st March 2021, all school grounds in Wales will become smoke-free spaces. Wales becomes the first country in the UK to extend its smoking ban to certain outdoor areas. Smoking in smoke-free spaces – which not only includes school grounds but also public playgrounds, outdoor day-care and child-minding settings as well as hospital grounds – from 1st March could result in a £100 fine.
As a school we acknowledge the important role we play in protecting everyone from harmful second-hand smoke and we especially recognise the important role that adults have in influencing the attitudes and smoking behaviour of children and young people. Banning smoking in places where children and young people spend their time will de-normalise smoking and reduce the chances of children and young people starting smoking in the first place– ultimately saving lives.
Please be assured we deal swiftly and appropriately when, on the exceedingly rare occasions, pupils have brought cigarettes/lighters into school in the past. We view such actions as a profoundly serious violation of the school code of conduct, we are therefore pleased to learn that the Welsh Government has reinforced this view in a legal sense.
I look forward to having your support to ensure we all play our part in building a healthier future. Those looking for help to stop smoking can access Wales’ free NHS support service Help Me Quit on 0800 085 2219 or visit www.helpmequit.wales for help and support, including access to free stop smoking medication.
Kind regards
Mrs Nicola Altman
Assistant Headteacher