News

Blackpool parks go smoke-free to protect children's health

Health
Children in Blackpool can now play in smoke-free parks, in an initiative aiming to prevent children from inhaling second-hand smoke.

The Blackpool NHS initiative, supported by Blackpool Council, is an attempt to raise awareness about the dangers of passive smoking to children.

Signs have been put up at 14 park and playground entrances. They read, ‘Altogether Now. To protect children, this is a designated smokefree site.’

Currently, children in the UK are not protected by law from exposure to passive smoking in playgrounds, so any such ban is on voluntary basis.

This move follows a string of announcements of smoke-free play areas across the country.  Earlier this year, Caerphilly Council in Wales made its playgrounds smoke-free.  

Blackpool Council commented, ‘It’s an advisory message of "Think before you light up a cigarette". It’s about creating a healthier community and families around Blackpool, so you’ve got children who are not inhaling passive smoking by going to the playground.’

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here