Smokefree

FAQs

You may have a few questions regarding the change in the law. The most frequently asked questions are answered here.

What exactly is the change in the law and when did it come into effect?

From 1st October 2007 it became illegal to sell tobacco products to people under the age of 18 (previously 16) in England and Wales. The change in law also took place in Scotland on the same date. The law applies to all people who sell tobacco both over the counter in shops and through vending machines.

What is the aim of the change in law for selling tobacco?

This change in law is to help prevent teenagers from starting to smoke and therefore avoiding the serious health dangers of smoking.

What sort of products does this law cover?

The law covers cigarettes, cigars, tobacco for roll your own and pipes as well as rolling papers.

What should businesses be doing?

As well as not selling tobacco products to people under the age of 18, retailers are required to clearly display a notice in their shops. It is also recommended they ask for picture ID from anyone wanting to buy tobacco products who looks under 21.

For the business site visit www.tobaccoagechange.co.uk (new window).

If I turned 16 before 1st October this year, will I still be sold cigarettes and other tobacco products?

Even if you were already 16 or 17 when the change in law came into effect, it is still illegal for you to be sold tobacco products.

I want to stop smoking. How can I get help?

The NHS offers a range of support to help you stop smoking which you can access by calling the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 169 0 169 or visit gosmokefree.co.uk (new window).

Also, if you’re aged between 12 and 17 did you know you can now be prescribed nicotine gum and patches to help with the cravings? Speak to your local NHS Stop Smoking Service (new window) or ask your GP for more information.

I’m over 18 but look young for my age. Should I be carrying picture ID when buying tobacco products?

Clearly it would be best to quit and we’ve great support to help you to do this. However if you want to buy age-restricted products such as tobacco you should expect to be challenged. Retailers will be advised to ask you for an accredited form of picture ID if you look under 21 so it’s a good idea to carry one.

Read more about the accredited forms of picture ID

Can smoking have a dramatic effect on how I look?

Smoking prematurely ages skin by between 10 and 20 years; gives a sallow, yellow-grey complexion and a gaunt look; causes gum diesease and bad breath; stains teeth and fingers; and increases the risk of cellulite. (CM0 2003 report/ASH)

Can smoking make people less attractive?

Over two-thirds of young people say smoking reduces sexual attractiveness; nearly half of men associate smoking with wrinkles, bad skin, and less enjoyable kissing; and nearly half of smokers say they would quit to improve their sex appeal. (Survey conducted by ICM Research for the NHS Smoking Helpline)

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