# data[].attributes.body
The East Midlands Tobacco Control Community of Improvement has produced a quick reference guide on novel nicotine products - including heated tobacco, shisha, smokeless tobacco, oral nicotine pouches. Intended to help inform professionals.

# data[].attributes.headline
DfE teacher training materials on tobacco

# data[].attributes.subject
DfE teacher training materials on tobacco

# data[].attributes.body
Links to DfE materials for primary and secondary schools to use to train staff to teach about drugs, alcohol and tobacco. These materials are due to be updated in line with the 2026 RSHE curriculum changes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

Practical materials for primary and secondary schools to use to train staff to teach about drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Details

This training module supports the physical health and mental wellbeing section of the statutory relationships, sex and health education curriculum.

The module contains key knowledge and facts to help teachers understand what they must teach. It includes information on:

legal and illegal harmful substances and associated risks

laws relating to these substances

These slides should be adapted to suit individual school context. This can include adding your own videos and resources to make your teaching training sessions more visual and interactive.

When planning your curriculum, consider how you will link these topics.

The drugs, alcohol and tobacco topic is closely related to the science curriculum as well as topics such as:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Teacher training: drugs, alcohol and tobacco

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content We use some essential cookies to make this website work. We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

# data[].attributes.headline
NCSCT Training resources for teachers: young people and stopping vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
NCSCT Training resources for teachers: young people and stopping vaping

# data[].attributes.body
NCSCT is a national organisation which provides evidence-based guidance and training for practitioners who work on smoking and vaping cessation in the UK. In response to demand, NCSCT has produced a suite of training materials for professionals who work with young people. This course will enable participants to have constructive conversations about stopping vaping and to offer support to young people who vape and would like to stop.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources: young people and stopping vaping

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
On this page we link to useful resources related to young people and stopping vaping. NEW! Young people and stopping vaping training materials
We have developed materials for a short (1–2 hours) training session aimed at staff who already work with young people (e.g. school nurses, teachers, youth workers, staff in children’s services).

# data[].attributes.body
Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, no matter your age or how long you have smoked.  It will also help prevent the harmful effects of secondhand smoke to children and young people.

If you work in a Notts school (teacher, support staff, caretaker, cook, governor etc.) and want to stop smoking, Public Health have 6-months' FREE access to the Smoke Free app available. Please see the attached case study to scan the QR code for your app access. You can also read testimonials from NCC users that have successfully used the app to stop smoking.

If you would like to order printed copies of the case study for school staff rooms, please email jackie.waller@nottscc.gov.uk

# data[].attributes.headline
Whole School approaches to nicotine products: overview

# data[].attributes.subject
Whole School approaches to nicotine products: overview

# data[].attributes.body
Advice on a whole school approach to nicotine products (including smoking, vaping and newly emerging products such as oral nicotine pouches), with the policy context.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Whole School Approach to Nicotine Products 20260610

# data[].attributes.headline
ASH guidance on developing school policies around vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
ASH guidance on developing school policies around vaping

# data[].attributes.body
ASH has produced some short guidance on developing school policies on vaping (2022). This guidance has been incorporated into the local documents.

# data[].attributes.headline
Template nicotine-free school policy and guidance notes

# data[].attributes.subject
Template nicotine-free school policy and guidance notes

# data[].attributes.body
Adapt this template for your school, following the guidance provided. The template also includes a draft letter to advise parents about your new nicotine-free school policy.

# data[].attributes.headline
NCSCT Training resources for teachers: young people and stopping smoking

# data[].attributes.subject
NCSCT Training resources for teachers: young people and stopping smoking

# data[].attributes.body
NCSCT is a national organisation which provides evidence-based guidance and training for practitioners who work on smoking and vaping cessation in the UK. In response to demand, NCSCT has produced a suite of training materials for professionals who work with young people. This course will enable participants to have constructive conversations about stopping smoking and to offer support to young people who want to stop smoking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources: young people and stopping smoking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
On this page we link to useful resources related to young people and stopping smoking. NEW! Young people and stopping smoking training materials
We have developed materials for a short (1–2 hours) training session aimed at staff who already work with young people (e.g. school nurses, teachers, youth workers, staff in children’s services).

# data[].attributes.headline
OHID factsheet on vaping and illegal substances

# data[].attributes.subject
OHID factsheet on vaping and illegal substances

# data[].attributes.body
This awareness factsheet from the Government's Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) provides information and advice for schools on use of vapes laced with illegal substances.

# data[].attributes.headline
Essential information about oral nicotine pouches for schools

# data[].attributes.subject
Essential information about oral nicotine pouches for schools

# data[].attributes.body
These guidance notes for school staff provide further information on what oral nicotine pouches are, the emerging health risks, how to spot their use and tips for dealing with them in school.

A separate leaflet intended for parents and carers, with information about oral nicotine pouches and tips for talking to children about them, can be found in the resources for parents section of this resource pack.

# data[].attributes.headline
Animation for young people - Think you know about vaping? The truth behind the clouds

# data[].attributes.subject
Animation for young people - Think you know about vaping? The truth behind the clouds

# data[].attributes.body
Short animation for young people commissioned by Nottinghamshire CC Public Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Think you know about vaping? The truth behind the clouds

# data[].attributes.headline
TikTok resource - vaping and peer pressure / illegal substances

# data[].attributes.subject
TikTok resource - vaping and peer pressure / illegal substances

# data[].attributes.body
This TikTok video has been mentioned by our colleagues in the DHSC for sharing with young people. It covers peer influences and vaping with illegal substances.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
AD some big sister advice🥹never do something you don’t want to xxx For info: talktofrank.com #bigsisteradvice #THC #THCVape #THCVapes  #CBDvapes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
@sofiapetrillo
AD some big sister advice🥹never do something you don’t want to xxx For info: talktofrank.com #bigsisteradvice #THC THCVape #THCVapes  #CBDvapes
♬ original sound - sofia petrillo

# data[].attributes.headline
Local posters promoting discussion among young people about vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
Local posters promoting discussion among young people about vaping

# data[].attributes.body
This set of posters has been created for an audience of young people aged 12+, initially for use by the Youth Service, but also of potential relevance for schools, where they could be displayed in communal areas or sixth form centres. Postcard versions are also available. QR codes point to our local animation for young people. Request printed copies for your school using this link: Youth Service ad-hoc learning resources about vaping

# data[].attributes.headline
Vaping and Smoking in RSHE guidance July 2025

# data[].attributes.subject
Vaping and Smoking in RSHE guidance July 2025

# data[].attributes.body
Updated curriculum guidance published July 2025 includes smoking and vaping education for both primary and secondary phases. Please see p23 of linked guidance for primary and p29 primarily for secondary, but also referenced on p27 in the context of nicotine and mental health.

# data[].attributes.headline
Finding out about vaping in your own school: local survey template

# data[].attributes.subject
Finding out about vaping in your own school: local survey template

# data[].attributes.body
This link is to a Microsoft forms template survey that you could duplicate for use in your own school.

Microsoft forms is a good option for a survey because it's anonymous, and it also analyses the data for you, so when you look at the results, you can see a summary. It's also quite simple to use.

This survey asks just five questions of the students - their year group, gender, their smoking status, their vaping status, and where they get their vapes from. So it will tell you whether more of them are vaping than smoking, roughly what proportion are vaping / smoking, whether there is an age gradient in vaping and whether there is a gender difference in vaping.

If you want to use it, you'll need to select the "Duplicate it" button and then you'll be able to make edits before sharing your own unique form with your students.

# data[].attributes.headline
Leaflet for parents and carers about vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
Leaflet for parents and carers about vaping

# data[].attributes.body
Locally adapted leaflet with facts about vaping for parents and carers and advice for having conversations about vaping with their children.

Schools can request printed copies of these leaflets by completing this form.

# data[].attributes.headline
Facts about vaping - postcard and fold-out card

# data[].attributes.subject
Facts about vaping - postcard and fold-out card

# data[].attributes.body
We have two resources (a double-sided postcard and a smaller fold-out card) which contain key facts about vaping. Both contain the same information but come in 2 size options. If you would like printed copies of these to give out, request these using this form: Resources for young people on youth vaping -  Don't Smoke? Don't start to vape!

# data[].attributes.headline
Easy read information on vaping for young people

# data[].attributes.subject
Easy read information on vaping for young people

# data[].attributes.body
Printed copies of this leaflet can be ordered using the same form as for the other resources in this column.

# data[].attributes.body
Vaping can be an early indicator of risk of criminal or sexual exploitation, so schools should always consider this. A separate padlet about these issues has been created by the Education, Safeguarding, Health and Wellbeing Hub at the County Council: Harms Outside the Home (padlet.com). Please visit it for further information, or contact the ESHAW Hub at eshawh@nottscc.gov.uk.

# data[].attributes.body
Vapes should not be used by children and young people, and are not recommended for anyone who does not smoke.

Vapes containing nicotine are addictive.

Vaping is less harmful than smoking, but it is not harmless.

Vapes haven’t been around long enough to know what the long term effects might be.

It is illegal to sell vapes containing nicotine to under 18s, or for adults to buy them to give to under 18s.

Most children and young people in the UK don’t smoke or vape.

If you don’t smoke, don’t start to vape.

# data[].attributes.body
This resource pack is primarily intended for use by schools, although elements of it will be relevant to other professionals working with children and young people in Nottinghamshire.

Each column is titled with its contents.

Scroll right to see all the columns and topics.

Scroll down each column to find additional information.

Click on website links or images to open the web page/document.

A search bar at the top right corner can be used to search the padlet.

Some info is intended for sharing with others, with intended audiences indicated in the column titles (parents, children and young people).

# data[].attributes.headline
Leaflet for parents and carers about nicotine pouches 

# data[].attributes.subject
Leaflet for parents and carers about nicotine pouches 

# data[].attributes.body
A locally produced A5 leaflet with facts about oral nicotine pouches for parents and carers and advice for having conversations about nicotine pouches with young people.

Schools can request printed copies of these leaflets by completing this form: Resources for young people on youth vaping -  Don't Smoke? Don't start to vape! – Fill in form

# data[].attributes.headline
What's new in this resource pack? (July 2026)

# data[].attributes.subject
What's new in this resource pack? (July 2026)

# data[].attributes.body
JULY 2026 - adjustment to layout of resource pack to separate out teacher training materials into their own column.

JULY 2026 - updated information about levels of smoking, vaping and other nicotine use in young people following publication of ASH annual survey of young people's nicotine product use. See updated slides on local and national intelligence in the Essential info about vaping column. Other documents containing reference to this survey have also been updated.

JUNE 2026 - Updates to the vaping incident checklist and the whole school approach documents to reflect most recent practice.

MAY 2026 - FREE stop smoking support available for school staff with the Smoke Free app. Attached case study with QR code to download the app and testimonials from NCC staff that have used the app. See Additional Information column.

MAY 2026 - new parent/carer leaflet about nicotine pouches (with option to request printed copies). See 'Resources for sharing with parents and carers' tab

# data[].attributes.body
All the teaching resources included in this section have been quality assured by the local Public Health team. They are evidence-based and relevant for UK audiences.

# data[].attributes.headline
Teacher's notes - conversations with groups of students about vaping 

# data[].attributes.subject
Teacher's notes - conversations with groups of students about vaping 

# data[].attributes.body
UPDATED July 2026 Guidance for teachers and other school staff to support conversations with groups of young people about vaping, which includes how to recognise and counter misinformation, and debunking some common vaping myths. Separate guidance available below covers one-to-one conversations with individual young people who are known to have been vaping.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Addressing misinformation around vaping 20260715

# data[].attributes.headline
Conversation notes: Very Brief Advice about vaping for use in 1:1 conversations with individuals

# data[].attributes.subject
Conversation notes: Very Brief Advice about vaping for use in 1:1 conversations with individuals

# data[].attributes.body
These notes are intended to provide guidance on speaking to young people individually about vaping - for use where there is evidence that a young person has been vaping. For general guidelines about talking to groups about vaping, please see the misinformation guide above.

# data[].attributes.headline
Oak National Academy free teaching resources on smoking and vaping for KS2 and KS3.

# data[].attributes.subject
Oak National Academy free teaching resources on smoking and vaping for KS2 and KS3.

# data[].attributes.body
The Oak National Academy is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Education. It produces teaching resources which are FREE for schools. The link is to a search for teaching materials (lesson plans, slides, videos, quizzes for use with KS2 (years 5 and 6) and KS3. As well as RSHE materials, there are also materials for use in science.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Search for Free Teaching Resources | Oak National Academy

# data[].attributes.headline
Checklist for schools - responding to individual incidents

# data[].attributes.subject
Checklist for schools - responding to individual incidents

# data[].attributes.body
This local checklist can be used by schools when dealing with an individual incident of vaping. The checklist provides a series of steps to consider with advice and links at each point.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Checklist for responding to vaping incidents 20260610

# data[].attributes.headline
Guidance on managing vaping incidents in school 

# data[].attributes.subject
Guidance on managing vaping incidents in school 

# data[].attributes.body
From the Association of Directors of Public Health

# data[].attributes.headline
Vaping incidents involving children aged under 12 

# data[].attributes.subject
Vaping incidents involving children aged under 12 

# data[].attributes.body
If primary-aged children are found to be vaping, school safeguarding policies would apply. Please consult with your DSL.

# data[].attributes.headline
Pilot service to support Notts young people aged 12-18 who want to stop vaping 

# data[].attributes.subject
Pilot service to support Notts young people aged 12-18 who want to stop vaping 

# data[].attributes.body
The Notts Youth Service has been commissioned to provide a pilot stop vaping service for children aged 12-18 in selected secondary schools. This pilot will run until March 2027 and will test different approaches to stop vaping support in a limited number of secondary schools. If your school is interested in exploring the opportunity to participate, please contact youthservicestopvaping@nottscc.gov.uk

# data[].attributes.headline
Referring young people 12+ to support services - those using illegal substances in vapes

# data[].attributes.subject
Referring young people 12+ to support services - those using illegal substances in vapes

# data[].attributes.body
Children who are using illegal substances in vapes can access support via CGL - referral link above.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Nottinghamshire referrals | Change Grow Live

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Refer yourself or someone else for drug and alcohol support in Nottinghamshire.

# data[].attributes.headline
Posters for children and young people - Poster A

# data[].attributes.subject
Posters for children and young people - Poster A

# data[].attributes.body
For display in school canteens, classrooms, student areas etc. Schools can also request printed copies using this form: Resources for young people on youth vaping -  Don't Smoke? Don't start to vape! (office.com)

# data[].attributes.headline
Posters for children and young people - Poster B

# data[].attributes.subject
Posters for children and young people - Poster B

# data[].attributes.body
For display in school canteens, classrooms and student areas. Schools can also request printed copies using this form: Resources for young people on youth vaping -  Don't Smoke? Don't start to vape! (office.com)

# data[].attributes.body
Website for under 10s. Vaping info written for a younger audience. The grown ups section of the website also contains some factual info for parents, including the local parents' leaflet mentioned in this resource pack.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Should you need urgent health advice please contact your GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency please visit A&E or call 999.

Vaping is a way to help adults quit smoking.

They have many names like E-cigarettes, Vape pens or Puff bars and they might seem cool or even harmless, but there are some serious health risks you should know about, especially for young people like you.

Is it REALLY that bad for you?

We're here to give you the facts from doctors and other experts and clear up some of the wrong things you might have heard from friends or on social media...

Most Vapes contain a drug called Nicotine, which is addictive: it means you want more and more.

Nicotine is risky for young people like you because your bodies and brains are still developing and exposing them to nicotine can mess with that development.

In the UK, it is against the law to sell nicotine vaping products to under-18s or for adults to buy it for them.

Vaping is quite new, so we still don't know what the risks might be in the longer term.

Getting help to stop smoking

The 'Stop Smoking Service' is there to help people give up if they want to. If you know someone who wants to stop smoking, they can contact the free Smokefree National Helpline on 0300 123 1044.

Riddle me this!

How old do you have to be to buy a vape?

Although Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes, it's not harmless and so children shouldn't be tempted to try it!

Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

Cookie consent

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. To find out more, review our cookie policy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Vaping is a way to help adults quit smoking, there are some serious health risks you should know about, especially for young people like you.

# data[].attributes.headline
Other sources of advice for young people 12+ who want to stop vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
Other sources of advice for young people 12+ who want to stop vaping

# data[].attributes.body
The Childline website has some tips for young people who want to give up vaping.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Yes. Vaping contains nicotine, which is a highly addictive drug. This means that your body and brain will start to feel uncomfortable without the drug, and it can make it harder to stop.

People can become addicted to nicotine even when they don't use it every day.

5 facts about vaping:

Vaping can be as addictive as cigarettes

Some people use vaping to help them quit smoking

It's against the law to sell nicotine products to anyone under 18

If you want to quit, it can help to get support

If you're worried about vaping, you can talk to us

Getting rid of anything you use to vape can make it easier to avoid temptation and is a good way to commit to quitting.

It can help to plan for situations or places when you'll struggle with cravings. These could be particular times of day or places that you go to. You can try to avoid them, or if you can't it can help to think about ways to distract yourself or keep your hands busy when it's getting tough.

Having people around you to support you when you're quitting can make a big difference.

Tell people you trust that you're quitting so they know to support you and help with cravings.

You can also speak to a Childline counsellor for support, or post on the message boards to join our community and get help there.

Feeling stressed can make it harder to cope with cravings, especially when you're used to vaping when you're feeling that way. There are always other ways to cope.

There's no single way to cope with stress, it can take time to find what works for you. Try these ideas to get you started:

Keep active and exercise
Keeping active can help boost your mood and can be a good way to take a break when you need to.

Try calming activities
Focusing on your breathing or doing something relaxing can help you to cope with stress and during the cravings. Even taking a few minutes can help. You can get ideas for things to do from the Calm Zone.

Do something to distract yourself
Taking a break for a few minutes can help to take your mind off things and give you something else to focus on. You could do something you enjoy, something that takes a lot of concentration, or get ideas using our coping kit.

Talk about what's happening
Tell someone you trust when you're feeling stressed, talking about things can help them seem less overwhelming. Not sure who to talk to? You can always speak to us.

Write things down
Get things out by writing down what's happening and how it's making you feel. You could write things just for yourself using Childline's mood journal, or you could write a message to a Childline counsellor to get a reply

Get more advice on coping with stress.

Celebrating going a day, week or longer without vaping can be a great way to remind yourself to keep going and give you something to look forward to.

You could plan small things to do that you'll enjoy, or set rewards for yourself each day.

It can take time to quit and lots of people don't make it the first time they try. Remember, that you can keep trying, even if you haven't been able to stop completely before.

Try to write down and remember the reasons you want to stop vaping, use that to help you keep trying if you do vape again or you're struggling with the cravings.

If you're struggling with peer pressure, there are a few things you can do:

Practice being assertive: Being assertive isn't the same as being aggressive or rude, it means saying what you want clearly and with confidence. Saying what you want can help people to understand it's your choice, and we've got tips to help.

Build your confidence: Feeling confident about yourself can make it easier to know what you want without feeling pressured by other people. It can take time to build your confidence, and we've got lots of ideas to help you do it.

Talk to someone outside the situation: It can feel hard to talk about what you want when everyone around you is vaping. You can always talk to us about what you want and how vaping makes you feel.

Take time away from people: If someone is making you feel bad about yourself or like you need to do things that you don't want to, then it's okay to take time away from them to focus on yourself and what you want without that pressure.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There are lots of reasons you might be thinking about vaping, get the advice and information you need to decide what's best for you.

# data[].attributes.headline
NHS advice on talking to young people about vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
NHS advice on talking to young people about vaping

# data[].attributes.body
NHS recommendations on how to tackle conversations about vaping with young people

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Vaping is not for children and young people. Their developing lungs and brains mean they are more sensitive to its effects. Nicotine vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking, but it is not risk-free.

That's why there's a minimum age of sale for vaping products in the UK. It is illegal to sell nicotine vaping products to anyone under 18 or for adults to buy them on behalf of under-18s.

If you find a retailer selling either nicotine vapes or tobacco products to under-18s, you can report a retailer to local authority Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice online portal.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Vaping is not for children and young people, whose developing brains are more sensitive to its addictive effects. Find out how to talk to young people about vaping.

# data[].attributes.headline
Hope UK e-learning resources on smoking and vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
Hope UK e-learning resources on smoking and vaping

# data[].attributes.body
These free e-learning resources include some materials aimed at supporting parents' knowledge around smoking and vaping.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our online E-learning modules cover a range of subjects with more being added over time. Each module includes online training that you work through at your computer. As you work through the course there are online activities and exercises for you to complete. Many of the courses have a quiz towards the end to test that you have understood what you have been learning. The activities and exercises will help you to complete the quiz successfully.

Please select a category below to continue.

These resources are free for you to use – if you would like to help support our work you can make a donation or sign up to receive our mailings.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A national charity providing drug and alcohol education and training for children and young people, parents and youth workers.

# data[].attributes.body
Poster for display in staff areas or sharing with parents, which identifies what the law says, how to recognise unregulated vapes, and what the routes are to report illegal or underage sales to Trading Standards.

# data[].attributes.body
Please report adverse reactions to vapes or e-liquids using the MHRA Yellow Card site

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to content

Report suspected side effects to medicines, vaccines, e-cigarettes, medical device incidents, defective or falsified (fake) products to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency to ensure safe and effective use.

Find the medicine / vaccine / device you wish to report.

Use the Coronavirus Yellow Card reporting site to report suspected side effects to medicines and vaccines or medical device and diagnostic adverse incidents used in coronavirus treatment.

Reporting as a manufacturer, marketing authorisation holder or other non-patient or health professional for a medical device adverse incident, fake or defective healthcare product? See our reporting guidance page.

Worried about your health?

Speak to your doctor, pharmacist or to call NHS 111 if you are worried about your health. If you're deaf and want to use the phone service, you can use the NHS 111 British Sign Language service available in your country.
We are unable to provide you with medical advice.
Always read the patient information leaflet, or instructions supplied with your medicine or medical device. It lists the known side effects or problems and advises you on what to do.

Yellow Card biobank

MHRA and Genomics England launch pioneering resource to better understand how genetic makeup influences the safety of medicines.

See our Yellow Card biobank page for more information and the press release.

Improving the Yellow Card reporting site

Welcome to the improved Yellow Card reporting site. Our interactive Drug Analysis Profiles (iDAPs) are now under ' What is being reported', this includes COVID-19 vaccine reports.

We will be continuing to improve our new website platform with enhancements over 2023 based on user feedback to give you a better, more tailored and transparent reporting experience. Future upgrades will offer new features such as:

technology that helps keep you up-to-date with your report as it progresses through MHRA review process and enables you to update your reports.

easier access to real-time safety communications and control over alerts, allowing you to switch on and off relevant safety communications.

the ability to manage information about healthcare products via a product watch list.

visualisation of data that will allow you to view information in a more user friendly, accessible way.

for frequent reporters, a search functionality that will allow your previous reports to be found easily.

We welcome your feedback.

Please note that the where possible, the MHRA asks and encourages all Yellow Card reports to be sent electronically instead of paper forms.

Download the Yellow Card app

Create medicines watch lists, get news and alerts from the MHRA, and also report using the Yellow Card app. The app is available to download from the Apple App Store, or Google Play Store and you can use your Yellow Card website account details on the app to report.

If you have any comments on the app please contact us.

This site uses cookies

Some of these cookies are essential, while others help us to improve your experience by providing insights into how the site is being used.

For more detailed information please check our Cookies page

Accept Recommended Settings Reject All

Necessary cookies

Necessary cookies enable core functionality. The website cannot function properly without these cookies, and can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences.

We'd like to set Google Analytics and third party cookies to help us to improve our website and your user experience, by collecting and reporting information on how you use it. The cookies collect information in a way that does not directly identify anyone. For more information on how these cookies work, please see our 'Cookie policy'.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
medicines and healthcare products regulatory agency. reporting

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Yellow Card | Making medicines and medical devices safer

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
MHRA Homepage for reporting of suspected side effects or adverse drug reactions to any medicines or vaccines, as well as medical device incidents

# data[].attributes.body
NEW educational package about nicotine pouches, including lesson plan, presentation, and activity pack. Produced by ASH Wales and reviewed by the local public health team.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
About This Resource This complete educational package helps students and young people critically analyse nicotine pouches, their health effects, and the marketing tactics used to sell them. The lesson plan, presentation, and activity pack provide an interactive way to explore the risks of these products, compare them to banned alternatives like snus, and challenge misleading [...]

# data[].attributes.headline
Intent programme - smoking and vaping prevention in secondary schools

# data[].attributes.subject
Intent programme - smoking and vaping prevention in secondary schools

# data[].attributes.body
FREE smoking and vaping education materials, provided under licence for all Notts secondary schools until May 2026. After 1 May, schools will continue to be able to use INTENT materials FREE of charge, in a change to licensing arrangements. Recommended for use in whole class delivery. Includes some specific lessons on vaping.

FREE staff training available (see tile below), to discuss the scientific evidence of the effectiveness of the programme, explore the content in detail and show how to navigate and access the platform. For more info or further questions, contact lauren.burns@nottscc.gov.uk.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
INTENT | smoking prevention programme | Evidence to Impact

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
“I feel like, because we were sort of left more to sort of like discuss it with each other, it made us feel like more adult and not be, like when we were younger. We were sort of just like “oh what do you guys think?” sort of discuss it in your groups. You felt like when you were hearing what everyo…

# data[].attributes.body
Contains a summary of the INTENT offer. This is available free of charge for Notts schools.

# data[].attributes.body
Training for secondary school staff on the INTENT programme of smoking and vaping prevention education. This programme is available free of charge to Notts schools.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
INTENT Smoking & Vaping Prevention Programme. Self-Directed training

# data[].attributes.body
This short video provides further information about the INTENT programme and shows how it is used in a secondary school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
INTENT - Smoking and Vaping Prevention Programme in Schools

# data[].attributes.body
Read about a local secondary school's participation in the INTENT programme.

# data[].attributes.headline
KS3 and KS4 Vaping lesson plan - Smokefree Sheffield

# data[].attributes.subject
KS3 and KS4 Vaping lesson plan - Smokefree Sheffield

# data[].attributes.body
A lesson plan produced by Smokefree Sheffield in conjunction with ASH, that can be used in secondary settings. Please see below for accompanying Teacher Toolkit.

# data[].attributes.headline
Teacher toolkit on vaping  for KS3 and KS4

# data[].attributes.subject
Teacher toolkit on vaping  for KS3 and KS4

# data[].attributes.body
Updated version of the Teacher Toolkit on vaping, produced by Action on Smoking and Health and Smokefree Sheffield.

# data[].attributes.headline
KS3 / KS4 Lifelabs teaching resources on vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
KS3 / KS4 Lifelabs teaching resources on vaping

# data[].attributes.body
Produced by the University of Southampton and quality assured by the PSHE association, these teaching resources include materials discussing the influence of advertising and marketing, the length of time it can take to identify health harms, and environmental impacts of vapes.

All three of these topics are mentioned in our local animation too, so you might like to play that as part of introducing the topic. See Think you know about vaping? The truth behind the clouds - YouTube

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
LifeLab: What’s the problem with vaping?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These free KS3-4 lessons from LifeLab — created using research from the University of Southampton and direct input from young people — will help you to highlight the negative consequences of vaping on both health and the environment.

# data[].attributes.headline
Vaping resources for KS3 form time activities

# data[].attributes.subject
Vaping resources for KS3 form time activities

# data[].attributes.body
Three form-time sessions covering social pressures around vaping, its impact, and the effects of nicotine. Includes guidance for supporting 1:1 conversations with young people. Developed by the NHS.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Students explore the facts and impacts of vaping in these flexible NHS-approved activities.

# data[].attributes.headline
Votes for schools - primary and secondary teaching resources on vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
Votes for schools - primary and secondary teaching resources on vaping

# data[].attributes.body
Lesson plans and assemblies suitable for KS2, KS3 and KS4. Evidence based materials reviewed by the local Public Health team.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
How can you teach it?

Our free lessons on vaping, provided by VotesforSchools, prompt students to explore the existing gaps in research and consider the uncertainties surrounding this practice. The lessons ask the question, "Do we know enough about vaping?" and look at the history of smoking, the little research around vaping, and ask children to think critically about whether we know enough about the risks of vaping.

The lessons are differentiated for different age groups, with the questions outlined below:

KS1 (Aged 5-7): Are playground trends a good thing?
KS2 (Aged 7-11): Do we know enough about how vaping affects us?
KS3 & KS4 (Aged 11-18): Should we be worried about vaping?

As part of our commitment to promoting education and well-being, we are offering free access to our vaping lessons. So far, more than 42,000 young people have taken part in the lessons, and shared their answers to the questions with The Department for Health & Social Care and SHEU. These resources are designed to facilitate classroom discussions, raise awareness, and empower students to make informed decisions. By engaging in these discussions, educators can empower students to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Teaching about Vaping: Lesson, plan & Assembly

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Equip students with knowledge on vaping and empower educators with engaging resources. Explore the impact, government crackdown plus free lessons and assembly.

# data[].attributes.headline
PSHE association - where is vaping covered in materials - KS2, KS3 and KS4

# data[].attributes.subject
PSHE association - where is vaping covered in materials - KS2, KS3 and KS4

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
" It is important that the starting point for health and wellbeing education should be a focus on enabling pupils to make well-informed, positive choices for themselves ".

Department for Education statutory Health Education guidance

This principle has always been at the heart of drug education, which in turn has been an integral part of PSHE education for over thirty years. Good drug education covers factual knowledge(e.g. about effects and laws applying to various substances) but also essential skills and attributes including how to manage peer influence and make informed decisions.

Priorities change over time regarding which substances schools feel they should teach about - for example, new figures from NHS Digital show a decrease in numbers of school children taking drugs and smoking cigarettes but a rise in vaping, with 9% of 11 to 15 year olds currently using e-cigarettes. This is reflected in the volume of queries we get from members on vaping, so we're keen to ensure schools have what they need to cover this topic with confidence. That's why we're reviewing the evidence base and working to provide everything you need, so watch this space!

In the meantime, here's a quick guide to building teaching about vaping into your existing PSHE education programme using our Programme of Study and materials such as our drug and alcohol education pack.

Programme of Study

Our Programme of Study for PSHE education is signposted from statutory DfE Health Education guidance and gives you a framework for designing PSHE education that matches your pupils' needs.

The learning opportunities set out in the Programme of Study are broad and 'top level', so don't necessarily mention specific substances. However, there are explicit references to vaping and e-cigarettes in the Key stage 2 section under the 'health and wellbeing' core theme.

Learning Opportunities at KS2

H49. about the mixed messages in the media about drugs, including alcohol and smoking/vaping

H46. about the risks and effects of legal drugs common to everyday life (e.g. cigarettes, e-cigarettes/vaping, alcohol and medicines) and their impact on health; recognise that drug use can become a habit which can be difficult to break
There are several learning opportunities in the Programme of Study for key stages 3 to 5 that also provide ideal vehicles for exploring issues around vaping, including:
KS3

H25. strategies to manage a range of influences on drug, alcohol and tobacco use, including peers

H26. information about alcohol, nicotine and other legal and illegal substances, including the short-term and long-term health risks associated with their use

H27. the personal and social risks and consequences of substance use and misuse including occasional use

KS4

H18. the ways in which industries and advertising can influence health and harmful behaviours

H21. to identify, manage and seek help for unhealthy behaviours, habits and addictions including smoking cessation

KS5

H21. to manage alcohol and drug use in relation to immediate and long-term health

See our Programme Builders for more detail on how to include these learning opportunities in your PSHE curriculum for each year group.

Drug and alcohol education lesson pack

Our suite of lesson plans for key stages 1 to 4 on drug and alcohol education explore the facts, laws, risks and consequences associated with the use of substances of all kinds. They also address how to manage influences and pressure around substance use, supporting pupils to keep themselves healthy and safe.

The strategies, skills and personal attributes developed through all of these lessons support pupils to manage pressures, influences and decisions about vaping, as much as they do for any other substance. But lesson 2 of the key stage 3 lessons specifically supports pupils to understand and manage influences relating to tobacco and nicotine product use.

" Role models and the media can influence decision-making. While vaping is far less harmful than smoking, it is not risk free. Both can be addictive mostly due to the presence of nicotine and the ease of which it can be taken and become part of someone's daily routine. Quitting therefore can be difficult, costly and require several attempts to be successful"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Where is vaping covered in our materials?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Some examples of where vaping and the use of e-cigarettes is covered in our Programme of Study and drug and alcohol education lesson packs.

# data[].attributes.body
Schools can work through this checklist to help identify how they are adopting a whole school approach to vaping.

# data[].attributes.body
UPDATED July 2026 A summary of facts about vaping produced by the local public health team. What vapes are, what the risks are, why children and young people vape, what the law says. Includes links to further sources of information.

# data[].attributes.headline
Notts County Council Education, Safeguarding Health and Wellbeing Hub

# data[].attributes.subject
Notts County Council Education, Safeguarding Health and Wellbeing Hub

# data[].attributes.body
You can consult this team (which was formerly called the Tackling Emerging Threats to Children Team) about a child or group of children you have concerns about, or if you need recommendations about where best to refer or signpost. Contact the team on eshawh@nottscc.gov.uk.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Education, Safeguarding, Health and Wellbeing Hub (ESHAWH)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Please note this service was previously referred to as the Tackling Emerging Threats to Children (TETC) Team and now incorporates Understanding Behaviour, previously referred to as the Coping with

# data[].attributes.body
Information from Notts Fire and Rescue about safety issues associated with vapes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Did you know that smoking is the biggest cause of death from fire in the UK?

Over the last five years, we have attended many fires caused by smoking. And whether this is from cigarettes or e-cigs, and quite simply, stubbing it out could make a big difference to whether you are the next smoking-related fire our crews attend - so next time you light up, make sure your cigarette is properly out before you dispose of it.

Take smoking outside

We know that telling you not to smoke indoors is perhaps not something that you are likely to follow because everyone has their own habits and routine, but what we can do is tell you how to do this safely.

Ideally, if you are going to smoke, doing so outdoors is best, but make sure that if you do smoke inside your house you are not doing so in bed, as cigarettes can easily ignite bedding. While there is flame-retardant bedding available, we would never advise relying on this.

Top smoking safety tips

Always keep matches, lighters, and cigarettes out of reach of children

Never smoke if you have taken medication, drugs, or drunk alcohol which makes you feel tired or drowsy

Never smoke, or let someone else do so in the same room as you if you use oxygen equipment or an airflow mattress

E-cigarettes and vaping

E-cigarettes might be the latest trend, but we doubt it's trendy to find out that your habit has caused a fire in your home. The devices, which operate by being charged, must never be left unattended when on charge, otherwise you could get more than you bargained for - a fire.

In April 2018, a mother and her three children were asleep at their home on Scholars Way in Mansfield when the smoke alarms in the property sounded in the early hours of the morning.

Firefighters from Mansfield, Blidworth, and Ashfield were mobilised to the scene, and Fire Control gave fire survival guidance to the family, who were in the front bedroom.

The fire had been caused by an e-cigarette lighter which was charging overnight, and thanks to the property having working smoke alarms, they were able to call 999 and nobody was injured.

The e-cigarette had ignited and highlighted the importance of taking care when using these goods.

Top e-cigarettes tips

Only buy e-cigarette devices from reputable retailers

Check that your device carries a CE certification, and contact Trading Standards if you have any concerns

Do not use counterfeit goods - batteries and/or chargers are unlikely to have current protection and could lead to batteries exploding

Never mix components of different e-cigarettes

Do not overtighten the atomiser when connecting to the charger

When the charge is complete, disconnect the battery and remove the charger from the USB port/socket - this is usually indicated by a light on the device

Only use chargers designed for use with the specific device. Some chargers may overcharge the product, leading to an increased risk of fire

Never leave an electronic cigarette charging unattended, and never leave them charging overnight

Never use damaged equipment or batteries

Store batteries and chargers in a cool dry place at normal room temperature. Do not leave them in hot places such as direct sunlight

Do not immerse batteries or chargers in water or otherwise get them wet

Never carry batteries, keys, or coins in the same pocket or bag

Never use a vaping device close to medical oxygen, flammable emollient creams, or airflow mattresses

If using disposable e-cigarettes, only use chargers designed for use with the device and never leave them unattended or charging overnight

Tips for employers

Facilitate opportunities for supervised charging of devices by staff in designated areas

Advise staff and patients of the approved safe use of e-cigarettes and regularly audit/enforce, agreed protocols

Ensure systems for review of any incidents related to recharging e-cigarettes(should they occur) are in place to promote learning

Finding help to quit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Smoking and e-cigarettes - Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Whether you smoke or you live with someone who does, there are a few simple tips to follow to keep yourself safe from fire, and while they are simple, they could make all the difference. We cannot tell you not to smoke, but can instead encourage you to do this with safety in mind.

# data[].attributes.body
Recommended UK source of advice on vaping (as well as smoking and other substances) for young people. Includes a 24/7 advice link (text, phone or live chat). Link is to vaping information but site also has info on smoking and other nicotine products.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Vapes are electronic devices designed to allow people to inhale nicotine in a vapour. Using a vape is known as vaping. Vapes are also available without nicotine.

Also called:

e-cigarettes

e-cigs

e-hookah

e-liquids

puff bars

vape pens

vape pods

vape sticks

Quick info

How the drug works varies from person to person

Was this information useful?
Yes No

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Vapes are electronic devices designed to allow people to inhale nicotine in a vapour. Using a vape is known as vaping... | FRANK

# data[].attributes.body
Age 10+ website with factual info about vaping, plus links to local services in Nottinghamshire.

This site also includes some tips for stopping vaping:

Thinking about stopping vaping? | Health For Teens

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How does vaping affect your health? | Health For Teens

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scientists are still working hard to understand all the ways vaping can affect your health in the long run. But here’s what we know for sure.

# data[].attributes.headline
Childline - advice for children and young people on vaping  

# data[].attributes.subject
Childline - advice for children and young people on vaping  

# data[].attributes.body
Includes tips for quitting vaping and dealing with peer pressure.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Yes. Vaping contains nicotine, which is a highly addictive drug. This means that your body and brain will start to feel uncomfortable without the drug, and it can make it harder to stop.

People can become addicted to nicotine even when they don't use it every day.

5 facts about vaping:

Vaping can be as addictive as cigarettes

Some people use vaping to help them quit smoking

It's against the law to sell nicotine products to anyone under 18

If you want to quit, it can help to get support

If you're worried about vaping, you can talk to us

Getting rid of anything you use to vape can make it easier to avoid temptation and is a good way to commit to quitting.

It can help to plan for situations or places when you'll struggle with cravings. These could be particular times of day or places that you go to. You can try to avoid them, or if you can't it can help to think about ways to distract yourself or keep your hands busy when it's getting tough.

Having people around you to support you when you're quitting can make a big difference.

Tell people you trust that you're quitting so they know to support you and help with cravings.

You can also speak to a Childline counsellor for support, or post on the message boards to join our community and get help there.

Feeling stressed can make it harder to cope with cravings, especially when you're used to vaping when you're feeling that way. There are always other ways to cope.

There's no single way to cope with stress, it can take time to find what works for you. Try these ideas to get you started:

Keep active and exercise
Keeping active can help boost your mood and can be a good way to take a break when you need to.

Try calming activities
Focusing on your breathing or doing something relaxing can help you to cope with stress and during the cravings. Even taking a few minutes can help. You can get ideas for things to do from the Calm Zone.

Do something to distract yourself
Taking a break for a few minutes can help to take your mind off things and give you something else to focus on. You could do something you enjoy, something that takes a lot of concentration, or get ideas using our coping kit.

Talk about what's happening
Tell someone you trust when you're feeling stressed, talking about things can help them seem less overwhelming. Not sure who to talk to? You can always speak to us.

Write things down
Get things out by writing down what's happening and how it's making you feel. You could write things just for yourself using Childline's mood journal, or you could write a message to a Childline counsellor to get a reply

Get more advice on coping with stress.

Celebrating going a day, week or longer without vaping can be a great way to remind yourself to keep going and give you something to look forward to.

You could plan small things to do that you'll enjoy, or set rewards for yourself each day.

It can take time to quit and lots of people don't make it the first time they try. Remember, that you can keep trying, even if you haven't been able to stop completely before.

Try to write down and remember the reasons you want to stop vaping, use that to help you keep trying if you do vape again or you're struggling with the cravings.

If you're struggling with peer pressure, there are a few things you can do:

Practice being assertive: Being assertive isn't the same as being aggressive or rude, it means saying what you want clearly and with confidence. Saying what you want can help people to understand it's your choice, and we've got tips to help.

Build your confidence: Feeling confident about yourself can make it easier to know what you want without feeling pressured by other people. It can take time to build your confidence, and we've got lots of ideas to help you do it.

Talk to someone outside the situation: It can feel hard to talk about what you want when everyone around you is vaping. You can always talk to us about what you want and how vaping makes you feel.

Take time away from people: If someone is making you feel bad about yourself or like you need to do things that you don't want to, then it's okay to take time away from them to focus on yourself and what you want without that pressure.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There are lots of reasons you might be thinking about vaping, get the advice and information you need to decide what's best for you.

# data[].attributes.headline
New Government campaign for safe disposal of vapes

# data[].attributes.subject
New Government campaign for safe disposal of vapes

# data[].attributes.body
New campaign to raise awareness of safety issues with using, charging and disposing of vapes. Includes posters for sharing.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
OPSS is leading a fresh campaign to raise awareness of safety issues with vapes, with resources for local authorities, community groups and the public.

# data[].attributes.body
Information on how to recycle vapes. Vapes contain hidden batteries and should not be disposed of in household waste, as they can cause fires.

# data[].attributes.headline
NICE Guideline NG209 - vaping and smoking  

# data[].attributes.subject
NICE Guideline NG209 - vaping and smoking  

# data[].attributes.body
NICE guidelines are evidence-based recommendations for health and care in England. The tobacco guidelines also cover vaping. Sections 1.4 to 1.7 are relevant for schools. Section 1.6 specifically refers to interventions in schools, including those related to vaping.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This guideline covers support to stop smoking for everyone aged 12 and over, and help to reduce people's harm from smoking if they are not ready to stop in one go. It also covers ways to prevent children, young people and young adults aged 24 and under from taking up smoking. The guideline brings together and updates all NICE's previous guidelines on using tobacco, including smokeless tobacco. It covers nicotine replacement therapy and e-cigarettes to help people stop smoking or reduce their harm from smoking. It does not cover using tobacco products such as 'heat not burn' tobacco.

In January 2023, in the section on identifying and referring pregnant women for stop-smoking support, we reduced the number of carbon monoxide tests recommended for women with low readings and no history of smoking.

In August 2022, varenicline was unavailable in the UK. See the MHRA alert on varenicline.

Recommendations

This guideline includes new and updated recommendations on:

It also includes recommendations on:

Who is it for?

Commissioners and providers of stop-smoking interventions and support, including those in the voluntary and community sectors

Commissioners and providers of interventions and support for preventing uptake of smoking

Health and social care professionals, including clinical leads in secondary care services and managers of clinical services

People working in local authorities, education and the wider public, private, voluntary and community sectors

Those commissioning, planning and delivering mass-media campaigns

People with a remit to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people aged 24 and under; this includes those working in the NHS, local authorities and tobacco control alliances

Retailers of tobacco products

Employers, estate managers and other managers

Employee and trade union representatives

It may also be relevant for:

Researchers and policy makers

Manufacturers and retailers of medicinally licensed nicotine-containing products and nicotine-containing e-cigarettes

Members of the public, including:

children, young people, their parents and carers

people using health and social care services, and their families and carers

women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, or who have a child aged up to 12 months, and their families and carers

people over 16 who smoke and are in paid or voluntary employment

Is this guideline up to date?

February 2024: We will update recommendations on stop-smoking interventions because cytisine is now available in the UK. For more information, see the surveillance decision.

Guideline development process
How we develop NICE guidelines
Engagement with tobacco industry organisations

The UK Government is a signatory and party to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). The development of this guideline complies with NICE's obligations under Article 5.3 of the FCTC.

NICE worked with Public Health England to develop this guideline.

This guideline updates and replaces the following NICE guidelines:

smoking: workplace interventions (PH5, published April 2007)

smoking: preventing uptake in children and young people (PH14, published July 2008)

smoking prevention in schools (PH23, published February 2010)

smoking: stopping in pregnancy and after childbirth (PH26, published February 2010)

smokeless tobacco: South Asian communities (PH39, published September 2012)

smoking: harm reduction (PH45, published June 2013)

smoking: acute, maternity and mental health services (PH48, published November 2013)

stop-smoking interventions and services (NG92, published March 2018).

Your responsibility

The recommendations in this guideline represent the view of NICE, arrived at after careful consideration of the evidence available. When exercising their judgement, professionals and practitioners are expected to take this guideline fully into account, alongside the individual needs, preferences and values of their patients or the people using their service. It is not mandatory to apply the recommendations, and the guideline does not override the responsibility to make decisions appropriate to the circumstances of the individual, in consultation with them and their families and carers or guardian.

All problems (adverse events) related to a medicine or medical device used for treatment or in a procedure should be reported to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency using the Yellow Card Scheme.

Local commissioners and providers of healthcare have a responsibility to enable the guideline to be applied when individual professionals and people using services wish to use it. They should do so in the context of local and national priorities for funding and developing services, and in light of their duties to have due regard to the need to eliminate unlawful discrimination, to advance equality of opportunity and to reduce health inequalities. Nothing in this guideline should be interpreted in a way that would be inconsistent with complying with those duties.

Commissioners and providers have a responsibility to promote an environmentally sustainable health and care system and should assess and reduce the environmental impact of implementing NICE recommendations wherever possible.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tobacco: preventing uptake, promoting quitting and treating dependence

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This guideline covers support to stop smoking for everyone aged 12 and over, and help to reduce people's harm from smoking if they are not ready to stop in one go. It also covers ways to prevent children, young people and young adults aged 24 and under from taking up smoking.

# data[].attributes.body
A social norms approach helps correct inaccurate ideas about how common certain behaviours are - such as thinking more people vape than actually do. It focuses on positive messages about healthy behaviours and attitudes that are common to most people in a group.

The posters below use a social norms approach alongside a school's own survey results to combat misperceptions about vaping. There are template versions for you to use in your own school, together with instructions.

If you use our template survey to collect information about smoking and vaping in your school, you'll be able to use these results to populate the template posters.

# data[].attributes.headline
Action for Smoking and Health (UK) - resources on youth vaping

# data[].attributes.subject
Action for Smoking and Health (UK) - resources on youth vaping

# data[].attributes.body
ASH produces information and conducts research into vaping and smoking.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Vapes are not risk free and should not be used by children or non-smokers. However, they play an important role in helping adult smokers quit. This page includes the latest information on youth vaping rates, potential risks, and the latest regulations.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Example of a completed social norms poster from a Notts secondary school. 

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Example of a completed social norms poster from a Notts secondary school. 

# data[].attributes.body
Use the actual data from your school survey to make tailored posters for your own school. Download, print out and fill in the posters for display in your school.

# data[].attributes.body
These versions of the two posters clearly show what information to include in the blank spaces in the template (marked in red).

# data[].attributes.headline
Local and national intelligence on young people's vaping and other nicotine product use 

# data[].attributes.subject
Local and national intelligence on young people's vaping and other nicotine product use 

# data[].attributes.body
UPDATED JULY 2026 The most recent statistics on smoking, vaping and other nicotine product use for our local area, including findings from our local school survey and behavioural insight work.

# data[].attributes.headline
TalkAbout Trust workshop on vaping for 16+

# data[].attributes.subject
TalkAbout Trust workshop on vaping for 16+

# data[].attributes.body
Vaping workshop for 16+. Produced by the Talkabout Trust. This workshop is about vaping and includes use of substances in vapes. The content has been reviewed by the local public health team.

# data[].attributes.headline
Case Study: Growing Up In Nottinghamshire

# data[].attributes.subject
Case Study: Growing Up In Nottinghamshire

# data[].attributes.body
The Growing Up In Nottinghamshire school survey provided a FREE opportunity to find out the scale of vaping and smoking (along with many other health issues). This offer has now closed for County schools. However, if you're interested, you can still read the case study about how a local secondary school used their survey results .

# data[].attributes.headline
NCSCT Resources on young people and stopping vaping August 2025

# data[].attributes.subject
NCSCT Resources on young people and stopping vaping August 2025

# data[].attributes.body
The National Centre for Smoking Cessation Training (NCSCT) has published new guidance on young people and vaping in August 2025. This national organisation provides evidence-based guidance and training for UK smoking cessation services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These selected case studies provide examples of how some areas have responded to concerns about young people and vaping This section includes various examples of both individual case studies and service innovations, generally in response to local concerns and demand for support to stop for young people who are vaping.

# data[].attributes.headline
Information about vape sources and types most frequently used by young people

# data[].attributes.subject
Information about vape sources and types most frequently used by young people

# data[].attributes.body
This document provides information about vaping products used by young people - where they get their vapes from, which flavours they prefer and which brands they choose. This information may be helpful background when having conversations with young people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Young peoples vape access and choices 20250818

# data[].attributes.body
Key messages about smoking

Most young people don't smoke. But those that do are at risk of serious harm to their health, if they continue to smoke into adulthood.

Smoking tobacco causes at least 15 different types of cancer, including two of the most common, lung and bowel cancer, and can contribute to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory infections, complications in pregnancy and certain eye diseases.

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to be sold any tobacco products. Parents or adults buying for underage children (under18) can also be prosecuted.

Breathing in secondhand smoke (passive smoking) is dangerous and can cause many of the same diseases as smoking.

Children are much more likely to start smoking themselves if they have family members or live with people who smoke.

It is never too late to give up smoking. Free support is available in Notts for anyone aged over 12 to give up smoking. Please contact Quit Smoking - Your Health Nottinghamshire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Quit Smoking - Your Health Nottinghamshire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Quit Smoking Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, no matter your age or how long you've smoked. Smoking damages your lungs, heart, and other vital organs, and increases your risk of serious health conditions such as cancer, stroke, and heart disease.

# data[].attributes.headline
NCSCT Guidance on young people and smoking

# data[].attributes.subject
NCSCT Guidance on young people and smoking

# data[].attributes.body
This guidance, first published August 2025 and aimed at teachers and others who work with young people, summarises the patterns and prevalence of smoking by young people, the impact of smoking tobacco upon their physical, mental and social health, and how to encourage young people who smoke to stop.

NCSCT is a national organisation which provides evidence-based guidance and training for UK smoking cessation services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Case studies: how some areas have developed support for young people wanting to stop smoking Interestingly, we came across far fewer case studies for young people and stopping smoking than we did for young people and stopping vaping. We will continue to look out for and include on this page various examples of both individual case studies and service innovations about support to stop for young people who are smoking.

# data[].attributes.headline
Reporting illegal sales of tobacco products

# data[].attributes.subject
Reporting illegal sales of tobacco products

# data[].attributes.body
If you become aware of sales of tobacco products to under 18s, you can report this for follow up by Trading Standards.

You can report directly to local Trading Standards through the above link.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Smoking and Tobacco Alliance - Report Illegal Tobacco Sales

# data[].attributes.headline
Smoking Drinking and Drug Use among young people in England - school survey 2025/26

# data[].attributes.subject
Smoking Drinking and Drug Use among young people in England - school survey 2025/26

# data[].attributes.body
The Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use survey of young people in England collects information on attitudes and experiences of secondary school students.

The next survey will take place between September 2025 and February 2026. Schools that participate can get data for their school, with a comparison to the national picture. This is a way for schools to find out about the prevalence of smoking and vaping in their setting.

If your secondary setting is interested to take part, please follow the link for more information and to register your interest.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People in England

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People in England

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SDD Survey | Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People in England

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Smoking, drinking, and drug use among young people in England are key public health concerns.

# data[].attributes.body
Please fill out this short form to let us know how you used the resource pack and how we can improve it.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Easily create surveys and polls to collect customer feedback, measure employee satisfaction, and organize team events.