Smokefree UK
Like it or not, there are smoking bans in all parts of the UK.
The introduction of smoking bans across the UK follows similar decisions made in Ireland and other parts of Europe and the USA. If you're a smoker in protest over the ban, count your lucky stars you don't live in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, where the sale and use of tobacco is completely outlawed.
Where is smoking banned?
Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, making it illegal to smoke in virtually all 'enclosed' and 'substantially enclosed' public places and workplaces. Many places - such as cinemas and public transport - rarely permitted smoking in the years before the ban, so places like pubs, restaurants, cafes, nightclubs and private members' clubs now have the same rules.
At work, staff smoking rooms and indoor smoking areas are no longer allowed, so anyone who wants to smoke during work hours has to go outside. And if you drive a company vehicle, you'll no longer be allowed to smoke in it even if you are the only person in the vehicle.
Smoking is also banned at certain outdoor locations that are 'substantially enclosed', such as football stadiums and railway platforms.
If you're caught smoking in a banned area you could be fined £50
Where can I smoke?
You are still allowed to light up outdoors, in your home or places considered to be 'homes', such as prisons, care homes and hotels.
Anyone in charge of a smokefree premises is legally obliged to display no-smoking signs so you shouldn't have difficulty deciding when you're allowed to spark up. If you're unsure about what's allowed and what isn't contact your local or district council, who are responsible for enforcing the ban.
What will happen if I'm caught fag-in-hand?
If you're caught smoking in a banned area you could be fined £50 - up to £200 if it goes to court.
But who's really going to care if I light up a sneaky one?
Those in charge of the premises would be fools to let you get away with it, especially considering that they could face a £2,500 fine if they fail to stop you. They could also be charged on-the-spot fines of £200 if they fail to display no-smoking signs, with the penalty increasing to £1,000 if the issue goes to court.
I may as well give up then...
Many smokers are being encouraged to stub the fags out in line with the ban, so you'll find lots of NHS support available, from face-to-face services to treatments and helplines. Quitline is a UK charity that helps people stop smoking - check out its site especially for young people who want to quit or call the helpline on 0800 002200.
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