From 1st of July 2007 virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces in England  became 'smokefree' with the implementation of the Health Act 2006. This included offices, factories, shops, pubs, membership clubs, restaurants, public transport and work vehicles used by more than one person..

The implementation of the Health Act 2006 follows similar legislation set in Scotland, Ireland and Wales. The aim is to protect people against exposure to passive smoking and the associated health risks.

To comply with this new smokefree regulation you must not:

• smoke in a designated smokefree place or vehicle
• allow a person to smoke in a smoke free place or vehicle
• fail to properly display a no smoking sign at entrances

You should also take reasonable steps to ensure that staff, customers/members and visitors are aware that your premises and work vehicles are legally required to be smokefree.

Failure to comply with any of the above is a criminal offence and could result in a fine or prosecution of an individual or the manager or person in control of a no smoking premises.

Other Useful Contacts

For support in giving up smoking, contact RedQuit (the Redbridge Primary Care Trust, Smoking Cessation Service). RedQuit is a free and confidential service in Redbridge, offering different types of support to suit all smokers. The Smoking Cessation Team is ready to help. Call their freephone helpline on 0800 988 8872 (9am-5pm) or text RED to 82010. You're four times more likely to quit with their help. Don’t delay, call today.

For more information about the new legislation and how you can play an important part in creating a smokefree England, you can visit Smokefree England or telephone 0800 169 1697.

Young people may find the following link useful smoking and giving up for young people.

NHS Smoking Helpline: 0800 1690 169

Your First Stop: 0800 917 2291