Smokefree Berwick one year on

Release date: 15.07.08
Ref: BBC/PR/ENV/16/08

Public support for smokefree environments in Berwick is still rising one year after the smoking ban came into force.

Local businesses and taxi owners in the Borough, who responded to a survey, said feedback from members of the community was largely positive. Smokers who were surveyed last year also shared this view; 40% said it was a good thing and only 10% said the ban was a bad thing.

Head of Public Protection Jan Anderson said:
“Research shows that across the country businesses and the general public have quickly adapted to the smokefree law. A year on from the ban the Department of Health and Chartered Institute of Environmental Health have also conducted research that shows there are tangible health benefits which are already being experienced as a result of smokefree indoor environments.”

If you would like to give up smoking there is a free NHS stop smoking helpline 0800 022 4332. It is open seven days a week - 7am to 11pm.