Smokefree Officer to help embed new smoking rules

Release date: 31.07.07
Ref: BBC/PR/ENV/26/07

Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council have a Smokefree Officer to help businesses embed in the new smoking rules.

Wendy Pattison will be working over the next few months providing guidance and help, as well as acting on any complaints or carrying out any enforcement to ensure businesses are acting lawfully.

The Health Act 2006 came into force on 1 July and means that smoking is not allowed by law in all enclosed public places, work premises and work vehicles.

Smokefree Officer Wendy Pattison said:
“Stopping smoking is the most important single thing you can do to improve your health. Smoking kills over 120,000 people in the UK every year. In Berwick Borough the average death rate from smoking is 56 people each year.

“I’ll be working with businesses to ensure that they are meeting all the requirements set out in the Act and giving advice and information. If you need any help or would like further information please contact me on 01289 330044 or e-mail wp@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk ,” she said

For more information log onto the smokefree website www.smokefreeengland.co.uk or call the information line on 0800 1691697.