A new campaign launched by Powys Teaching Health Board and Powys County Council aims to raise awareness of the potential harms of vaping among young people in the county.

The campaign, co-designed with students from local schools and youth clubs, focuses on dispelling the misconception that vaping is a safe and cool alternative to smoking.

Statistics from the School Health Research Network show that while the number of young people smoking tobacco is decreasing, the use of vapes is on the rise.

With 1 in 5 young people in Powys admitting to having tried vaping, the campaign seeks to highlight the dangers of exposing developing brains to nicotine and the potential risks of addiction.

Mererid Bowley, Executive Director of Public Health, Powys Teaching Health Board said:

"It is illegal for those under 18 years to buy nicotine vapes or to have them bought for them.  Vaping is not without harm. We simply don’t have enough evidence to know the long term impacts that vaping has on our health and wellbeing."

"Developing brains shouldn’t be exposed to nicotine, which poses a risk of addiction. The simple message is, if you don’t smoke, then you shouldn’t start vaping. I would urge parents to share the campaign far and wide, and to discuss the risks of vaping with their children, to raise awareness of its potential harms, and support preventing a future public health crisis”.

Matt Perry, Powys County Council’s Chief Officer – Place, said:

"It is vital that the perception of vaping, not just across the county, but across the country, is changed, and it’s fantastic that we are able to work in partnership with Powys Teaching Health Board to develop this campaign and help us raise awareness of the potential harms of vaping."

"Just because the device is brightly coloured andfruit flavoured, does not mean it comes without risks. It comes with a list of its very own side effects and health implications. This campaign is reflective of our strong partnership approach to protecting the health of our residents."

The campaign will be visible on social media platforms, operational premises, secondary schools, and bus stops across Newtown and the wider county of Powys.