Children hand-drawn happy and beautiful neighborhoods in stick figure style illustration. White background.

Safer Neighbourhood Havering

by London Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsOutreach

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Mobile Intervention Outreach Service, operating across multiple areas in the borough. Commissioned by the London Borough of Havering, this initiative aims to deliver engaging activities and vital support directly to the young people in our community.

Mobile Intervention Service

Our mobile service is set to visit various areas identified through the community safety team within Havering Council. This initiative focuses on Intelligent Led Youth Work (ILYW) and offers a variety of fun and engaging activities, including:

  • Table Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Football
  • Badminton
  • Podcasting
  • Music
  • Street Chess

These activities have already received positive feedback from local partners and councillors. They are proving popular, keeping young people engaged, reducing anti-social behaviour, and supporting those at risk of exploitation. Our approach is effective and impactful.

Our mobile service not only provides these exciting activities but also creates a safe, inclusive space where young people can develop social skills, teamwork, and overall well-being. It’s a place where they can feel valued and supported by trusted role models, explore their interests, and grow as individuals. We are not only working with young people but also engaging the wider community to help forge relationships between generations. Similar projects have shown significant improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and ambitions among participants.

With the support of our funding, we can ensure proper supervision and provide the guidance and support young people need to reach their full potential.

Giving Young People a Voice – Soundmap

Our second activity focuses on capturing the voices and experiences of young people in our community. Through street interviews and podcasts, we aim to understand their perspectives on community safety and other important themes.

We will use various multimedia approaches, including surveys, and podcasts, to explore how young people view their homes, neighbourhoods, and public authorities. This initiative will help us understand the socio-spatial implications in our youth community, followed by audio-visual interviews and recordings.

We are thrilled to embark on this journey with our community and look forward to the positive changes and growth it will bring. Stay tuned for updates on our progress and the amazing stories from our young participants

THURSDAY SESSIONS

13th June to 4th July – Hilldene Shopping Area

1st Aug 22nd Aug – Orchard Village, Rainham

29th Sept to 19th Sept – Cherry Tree, Rainham

MONDAY SESSIONS

(School Summer Break)

6th Aug to 27th Aug – Upminster Park

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The British Racing School Induction Week June 2024

by Horse RacingNew Projects

Funded by:

The British Racing School
Introduction to Racing Residential Course June 2024

The British Racing School

An Introduction to Racing, Residential Course June 2024

We are thrilled to share the remarkable stories of our young participants in the horse riding project working with the British Racing School, this being our fourth intake of students.

These dedicated individuals, aged 15 to 19, hail from diverse backgrounds and regions, all united by their love for horses and animal care. Their enthusiasm and varied experiences highlight the incredible potential within our community, making this project a beacon of opportunity and growth for aspiring equestrians.

The inspiring stories of these young equestrians reflect a shared passion for horse riding and animal care. Their diverse backgrounds and aspirations highlight the transformative power of this project, offering invaluable learning experiences and paving the way for their future careers.

Through visiting the National Stud, which was part of the induction week, two of the young people have completed applications to join their 6-week groundwork course, with a further two in the group hoping to join the apprenticeship program starting in 2025.

This induction week, funded by the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust, is a testament to the commitment to supporting these remarkable individuals on their journey. We look forward to witnessing their continued success in the equestrian world.

These young people where  successfully brought together through our extensive network of partners, which include Peabody, Greenwich and Tendring District Council.

These partnerships have been instrumental in identifying and engaging dedicated individuals who share a passion for horse riding and animal care. By leveraging these strong relationships, we have been able to provide these young participants with invaluable opportunities and resources, fostering their growth and development within the equestrian field.

As a volunteer at a community farm, Jack has immersed himself in the world of animals. His sporadic yet heartfelt riding experiences with family have instilled in him a deep appreciation for horses. Jack’s enthusiasm for learning and caring for horses shines through his volunteer work.

Sophie’s two years of volunteering at Sandy’s Farm have honed her skills in animal care. Her experience, coupled with her passion for working with animals, positions her perfectly for this project, where she can further her aspirations in animal care.

: Logan’s early riding lessons between ages 7 and 10, including a stint in South Africa, laid a solid foundation for his equestrian interests. Despite a recent break, his enthusiasm for returning to horse riding is palpable.

Rachel’s dedication to horse riding over the past two years has been unwavering. Owning a pony and riding mainly on weekends, she dreams of a future in horse care and racing. Her strong bond with her pony and passion for learning make her an invaluable addition to the project.

Michelle’s passion for horses and animals is longstanding, having ridden horses from ages 3 to 6. With aspirations to become a veterinarian, Michelle views this project as a stepping stone toward her future career, eager to deepen her knowledge and experience in animal care.

Rebecca’s love for animals, nurtured through her primary school farm experience, fuels her ambition to pursue a career with animals. This project offers her a chance to relive cherished childhood memories while honing her skills for a future in animal care.

 

Letitia’s dedication to volunteering at Woodlands Farm Trust and her involvement in the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award showcase her commitment to animal care. Her passion for horses and aspiration to attend an equestrian college underscore her potential for success.

Demimay’s journey with horses began at a young age, riding twice a week for five years. Her profound love for animals, evident through her care for pets at home, fuels her desire to re-enter the horse riding industry. Her previous experience positions her to excel and benefit immensely from this opportunity.

Rhianna’s goal is to gain experience at a professional yard to enhance her horse care skills. Her excitement for this opportunity reflects her determination to learn and grow within the equestrian field, making her a promising participant.

Riding since the age of 4, Daisy’s commitment to horse riding is unparalleled. She owns two ponies and rides multiple times a week. Daisy’s dream of working in the racing industry and her extensive riding experience make her a standout participant.

Growing up with horses and competing regularly, Elle-mai is a seasoned equestrian. Her desire to explore horse racing adds an exciting dimension to her already impressive skill set, promising a bright future in the equestrian world.

This immersive journey aims to not only broaden their horizons but to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the equine world.

With a visit to the National Stud Farm, the young minds were treated to a detailed guided tour, unraveling the intricate tapestry of horse breeding and care. The experience wasn’t just a visit; it was a hands-on exploration of the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the well-being and development of these magnificent creatures.

The expedition continued at the British Horse Racing Museum, where the group was immersed in a wealth of knowledge. A meticulous guide led them through not only the museum’s exhibits but also illuminated the intricacies of how horses are meticulously cared for in the stables. From the history of horse racing to the day-to-day life of these majestic animals, every facet was unveiled with precision and passion.
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“HER Voice” A Podcast for Women & Girls

by New ProjectsPodcasting

We are excited to announce the launch of our new podcast, “Her Voice,” which is dedicated to creating a supportive and open environment for women and girls of all ages and backgrounds. 

Our aim is to provide a space where they can comfortably share their challenges, experiences, and emotions. “Her Voice” offers a platform for discussing a wide range of topics related to relationships, mental health, personal growth, and more. 

Through honest conversations and storytelling, we hope to foster a sense of community and understanding among our listeners.

What to Expect from “Her Voice”

  • Authentic Conversations: Our podcast will feature women presenters and guests who openly discuss their struggles with mental health, emotional difficulties, and life experiences. These candid discussions aim to reduce stigma and encourage listeners to seek the support they need.

  • Community and Support: By sharing their stories, our guests will help listeners feel less alone and more understood. The podcast aims to create a sense of solidarity and support among women and girls who may be facing similar challenges.

  • Resource Guidance: While podcasting alone may not solve all issues, “Her Voice” aims to provide listeners with valuable information and signposting to appropriate resources for further guidance and help. We will regularly invite professionals to share their expertise and offer practical advice.

  • Diverse Topics: Our episodes will cover a broad spectrum of topics, ensuring that there is something for everyone. From relationship advice to mental health awareness and personal development tips, “Her Voice” is here to address the issues that matter most to women and girls.

We are committed to making “Her Voice” a safe and welcoming space where women and girls can come together to share, listen, and grow. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes, and join us on this journey of empowerment and connection.

Thank you for your support as we embark on this exciting new project.

This project is made possible by the funding support from MIND West Essex

a person is smoking

Successful Delivery of “Crucial Crew” Workshops on the Dangers of Vaping

by New Projects

We had the privilege of delivering our much-anticipated “Crucial Crew” workshops, focusing on the dangers of vaping among young children. This important initiative, aimed at raising awareness and educating our youth about the health risks associated with vaping, was met with great enthusiasm and engagement from all participants.

Key Highlights from the Workshops:

Interactive Learning Sessions: Our workshops featured interactive sessions designed to engage young minds. Through activities, discussions, and multimedia presentations, we highlighted the harmful effects of vaping, including the potential for addiction and long-term health consequences.

Expert Insights: We were fortunate to have health experts join us to share their knowledge and experiences. They provided valuable insights into the chemicals found in vape products and their impact on the developing bodies of young people.

Myth-Busting: Many young people hold misconceptions about vaping. Our workshops included a myth-busting segment to dispel common myths and provide accurate information. This helped clarify the reality of vaping and its true risks.

Support and Resources: We provided attendees with resources to help them make healthier choices and support peers who might be struggling with vaping. This included information on counseling services, helplines, and educational materials for further reading.

Engaging Activities: To reinforce the lessons learned, participants engaged in various activities such as quizzes, role-playing scenarios, and group discussions. These activities fostered a deeper understanding of the subject matter and encouraged peer-to-peer learning.

Positive Feedback and Outcomes:

The feedback from the workshops was overwhelmingly positive. Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn about the dangers of vaping in an engaging and informative manner. Many young attendees reported that they felt more equipped to make healthy choices and to support friends who might be considering vaping.

We are incredibly proud of the success of the “Crucial Crew” workshops and the impact they have had on our young community. Educating our youth about the risks of vaping is crucial in fostering a healthier future generation.

Looking Ahead:

We are committed to continuing our efforts in educating young people about the dangers of vaping and other critical health issues. Stay tuned for more workshops and initiatives as we work together to create a safer, healthier environment for our children.

Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this important initiative. Together, we can make a difference.

Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this important initiative, and a special thanks to Uttlesford Council for their invaluable partnership. Together, we can make a difference.

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Youth Unity in Jaywick

by Arts & CultureECVYSNew ProjectsSports & FitnessTendring
We provide a safe space where young people can come to play, relax, and release pent-up energy. This welcoming environment allows them to unwind and engage in recreational activities while being surrounded by supportive peers. Additionally, our dedicated team of trusted adults is always available to listen to their concerns, offer guidance, and provide the support they need. This combination of safe play areas and accessible, caring adults helps to foster a sense of security and community, encouraging young people to thrive both emotionally and socially.

We are dedicated to helping children and young people achieve the following outcomes:

  • Make positive choices that keep them safe
  • Raise self-esteem and confidence
  • Build resilience
  • Improve emotional and physical health and mental well-being
  • Build connections with trusted adults
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RideLondon 2024: Youth Unity’s Impact and Collaboration with Epping Forest Council

by New Projects

This past weekend, the vibrant streets of London were alive with the excitement and energy of RideLondon 2024, a premier cycling event that brings together athletes, enthusiasts, and communities from all walks of life. Among the bustling activity and celebration, Youth Unity was honored to host a stand, thanks to the generous invitation from our partners at Epping Forest Council.

A Weekend of Inspiration and Community

RideLondon is not just a race; it’s a festival that champions health, sustainability, and community spirit. Thousands of cyclists take on the challenge of navigating through London’s iconic routes, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators. This year, the event was particularly special for us at Youth Unity as it provided an excellent platform to connect with the community, promote our initiatives, and celebrate our ongoing collaboration with Epping Forest Council.

The Scenic Route Through Epping Forest

One of the highlights of RideLondon is its scenic route through Epping Forest. This picturesque stretch is not only a test of endurance for the cyclists but also a celebration of nature and community. The forest, with its lush greenery and tranquil paths, offers a refreshing change of scenery and a moment of respite for the participants. It’s a favorite segment for many cyclists and spectators alike, showcasing the natural beauty of the area and its importance to local communities.

Youth Unity: Our Mission and Vision

At Youth Unity, we are dedicated to empowering young people through education, mentorship, and community engagement. Our mission is to create a safe and supportive environment where youth can develop their skills, build confidence, and positively contribute to society. Being part of RideLondon allowed us to showcase our work and engage with a broader audience, fostering new connections and reinforcing our commitment to youth development.

Collaboration with Epping Forest Council

Our partnership with Epping Forest Council has been instrumental in expanding our reach and impact. Their support has enabled us to implement various community projects and initiatives that address the needs of young people in the region. At RideLondon, this collaboration was evident in the joint efforts to promote community wellbeing and youth engagement.

Epping Forest Council’s commitment to fostering a positive environment for young people aligns seamlessly with our goals at Youth Unity. Together, we are working towards creating a safer, more inclusive community where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the success of RideLondon 2024, we are filled with gratitude and inspiration. The event provided a valuable platform for Youth Unity to connect with the community, promote our mission, and strengthen our partnership with Epping Forest Council. We are excited about the future and the many possibilities that lie ahead.

In the coming months, we plan to build on the momentum gained from this event by launching new initiatives, expanding our programs, and continuing to engage with our community. We invite you to join us on this journey, whether as a volunteer, partner, or supporter. Together, we can make a difference and empower the next generation.

Join Us

Stay connected with Youth Unity through our website and social media channels for updates on our latest projects, events, and opportunities to get involved. Thank you to everyone who visited our stand at RideLondon and to Epping Forest Council for their unwavering support. Let’s continue to ride forward, united in our mission to inspire, empower, and uplift the youth in our community.

We hope this blog gives you a glimpse into the exciting weekend we had at RideLondon and the meaningful work we do at Youth Unity. Your support is invaluable, and we look forward to many more successful collaborations and events in the future.

whats on in the area logo

Whats on in Dartford

by Whats On

1. Dartford Park: A spacious park with a playground, skate park, and open green spaces for sports and outdoor activities. Central Park – Explore Kent

2. Dartford Library: The library hosts various events and workshops for young people, such as book clubs, coding classes, and craft sessions.

3. Dartford Unity Hub  This community centre provides a range of activities and programs for young people, including free sports, arts and crafts – Tuesdays

4. Dartford Football Club: If you’re into football, you can join Dartford FC’s youth team or attend their matches to support the local team. Dartford FC Official Website | Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park

6. Dartford Science and Technology Centre: This center organises science workshops, coding classes, and robotics sessions for young people interested in STEM subjects. Dartford Science & Technology College – Post 16 (dstc.kent.sch.uk)

7. Dartford Music School: If you have an interest in music, you can join the music school to learn to play an instrument, participate in choir groups, or attend music theory classes. The Mick Jagger Centre – Dartford Music School

8. Dartford Parkrun: Every Saturday morning, there is a free 5km timed run in Dartford Park, which is open to all ages and abilities. home | Dartford parkrun | Dartford parkrun

9. Orchard Thearte – Orchard Theatre | Get Involved | Orchard Theatre Dartford (trafalgartickets.com) – Workshops and Summer Projects for young people interested the performing arts.

Gravesend – offers a range of activities and opportunities for young people.

1. Cascades Leisure Centre: This facility offers a variety of sports and recreational activities, including swimming, gym sessions, group fitness classes, and indoor sports like badminton and basketball.

2. Woodville Halls: The Woodville Halls is a performing arts venue that hosts a variety of shows and performances, including theater productions, concerts, and comedy nights. It’s a great place to enjoy live entertainment. The Woodville – Gravesend’s Local Theatre & Cinema Complex

3. Cyclo Park –  If you’re into skateboarding, BMX biking, or inline skating, the Gravesend Skatepark provides ramps, rails, and other features for you to practice and have fun. Cyclopark | Home

4. Gravesend Borough Market: The market is a vibrant hub where you can explore different stalls offering food, crafts, and unique products. It’s a great place to socialize and discover local businesses. Gravesend Borough Market – Gravesham Borough Council

7. Gravesend Rowing Club: If you’re interested in rowing, you can join the Gravesend Rowing Club and learn this exciting sport. They offer training sessions and competitions for all skill levels. Gravesend Rowing Club – Est 1878

8. Gravesend Sea Cadets: The Sea Cadets is a youth organisation that provides opportunities for young people to learn maritime skills, participate in water-based activities, and develop leadership qualities. Home – Sea Cadets Gravesend (sea-cadets.org)

9. Kent Police – cadet scheme is a nationally recognised uniformed police youth group led by a team of police officers, staff and volunteers who have experience of working with young people.

Cadets | Kent Police

Colleges 16 +

1. North West Kent College: Located in Dartford, North West Kent College offers a wide range of courses including vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, and higher education programs.

2. Hadlow College: Situated in Tonbridge, Hadlow College specialises in land-based courses such as agriculture, animal management, horticulture, and equine studies.

3. Bexley College: Bexley College has campuses in both Bexleyheath and Erith, offering a variety of courses including A-levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, and adult education programs.

4. Dartford College: Dartford College provides a range of courses in areas such as business, health and social care, construction, and engineering. They offer both full-time and part-time options.

5. The Leigh UTC: The Leigh UTC (University Technical College) is located in Dartford and focuses on engineering and computer science education for students aged 14-19.

6. Rose Bruford College: Situated in Sidcup, Rose Bruford College is an institution for performing arts education, offering courses in acting, design, stage management, and more.

7. Christ the King Sixth Form College: With campuses in both Sidcup and Bexleyheath, Christ the King Sixth Form College provides A-level courses and vocational qualifications.

8. University of the Creative Arts

offer courses in Architecture, Crafts, Fashion, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fine Art, Photography, Film, Media, the Performing Arts and Creative Business. Our programmes are acclaimed for their top teaching quality, and highly respected by creative sector employers.University for the Creative Arts | University for the Creative Arts (uca.ac.uk)

The side of a blue southeastern Railways carriage. Behind one of the two windows, commuters sit waiting for the train to continue its journey.

South Eastern Railway

by New ProjectsOutreach

Our resource page for events and opportunities in the local area

Youth Unity has been commissioned by Southeastern Railway to bring dynamic outreach activities to Dartford! Our Mobile Intervention Unit will be stationed outside Dartford Train Station from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm every Monday for the next 10 weeks starting on 20th May as a pilot project, offering an exciting mix of mobile sports, gaming, and music to engage and support local young residents.

These activities build trust and provide reassurance to Southeastern Railway customers, creating a positive environment for young people.

But that’s not all! Beyond our on-site activities, we’ll also be delivering impactful workshops in several area schools, further extending our support and engagement with the youth community.

PROTECT – Mobile Outreach Service

PREVENT – Filming, Interviews, Consultations on the Trainline

PREPARE – Workshops on CCE, Knife Crime, and Violence

Our mobile service acts as a ‘Safe Haven,’ offering flexible support where it’s needed most. With a focus on Intelligent Led Youth Work (ILYW), we provide engaging activities such as:

Sports: Table Tennis, Basketball, Football, Badminton

Creative Arts: Podcasting, Music Recording, Gaming

These activities build trust and provide reassurance to South Eastern Railway customers, creating a positive environment for young people.

Activity 2: Themed Education Package

Focus Areas:

  • Peer Pressure
  • Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)
  • Street-Based Violence
  • Decision-Making
  • Honesty and Consequences
  • Identifying Safer Places

Our education package equips young people with the tools to avoid group violence and drug-related activities.

Join us in making a difference and creating safer, more connected communities!

Crime Scene at Night: Crime Scene Investigation Team Working on

Critical Incident Response in Redbridge

by London Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsOutreach

Due to the recent tragic incident that occurred on April 30th, 2024, in Redbridge, the London Borough of Redbridge has commissioned Youth Unity CIC – Prevent, Prepare & Protect to provide reassurance education workshops.

As part of our response, we will be conducting outreach activities through our Mobile Intervention Unit, which will be stationed near local schools between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm. These activities will include mobile sports provision, gaming, and music, aimed at engaging and supporting the students.

In addition to our detached youth work, we will be delivering workshops in several schools in the area.

The workshop element will focus on several themes.

Offering community reassurance can significantly help ease tensions and fears, especially for parents living in the local area. By providing a visible and proactive presence, we demonstrate our commitment to the safety and well-being of their children. Community reassurance activities, such as our Mobile Intervention Unit and educational workshops, offer parents peace of mind by actively addressing the root causes of youth violence and providing support to young people. This approach not only helps to prevent future incidents but also fosters a sense of security and trust within the community.

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Conceptual image conveying the potential risks of vaping

Your First Day Without Vaping

by New ProjectsParentingStopNAsk

Youth vaping has tripled in the last three years, and 1 in 5 children have tried vaping. Disposable vapes are clearly linked to the rise of vaping in children. They are cheap and easy to use, with 69% of current vapers aged 11 to 17 in Great Britain using them.

Your first day without vaping can be tough. Here are five steps you can take to handle your quit day.

1. Do Not Vape

On your quit day, the most important thing is that you don’t vape—not even one hit. Having a plan for how you will deal with triggers and urges to vape can make your quit day easier. Take it one day at a time. Focus on getting through today without vaping.

Revisit your quit plan to stay focused and confident during your quit day. If you haven’t made a quit plan yet, it’s not too late. Build your personalised quit plan now.

If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, now is a good time to quit those too. We know it can seem challenging to quit smoking or using other tobacco products at the same time as quitting vaping, but becoming totally tobacco free is the best thing you can do for your health. 

2. Stay Busy

You will probably think about vaping a lot today, which is totally normal. Staying busy will help you keep your mind off vaping, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings. Try some of these activities:

  • Go for a walk, ride a bike, or do your favorite workout.
  • Make a new playlist on your favorite music app.
  • Have gum or sugar-free candy handy.
  • Keep your hands busy with a pen or toothpick, or play a game on your phone.
  • Drink lots of water.
  • Relax with deep breathing.
  • Plan a fun activity with friends and family who do not use vapes or any other tobacco products.

3. Avoid Vaping Triggers

Triggers are the people, places, things, and situations that set off your urge to vape. On your quit day, try to avoid triggers. Here are some tips to help you outsmart some common vaping triggers:

  • Throw away your vapes, e-liquid bottles, pods, and chargers.
  • Go to places where vaping isn’t allowed.
  • Stay off social media accounts that remind you of vaping.
  • Get plenty of rest and eat healthy. Feeling tired or run down can trigger you to vape.
  • Change your routine to avoid the places and things you might associate with vaping.

4. Ask for Help

You don’t have to do this alone. Tell your family and friends when your quit day is. Ask them for support on quit day and in the first few days and weeks after. They can help you get through the rough spots. Let them know exactly how they can support you. For example, ask a friend to help you celebrate your first day being vape-free.

5. Reward Yourself

At the end of the day, reward yourself for being vape-free for 24 hours. You deserve it! It doesn’t have to be a big or expensive reward. Even taking extra time to do a favorite vape-free activity will make you feel good and help you be ready for day two of your quit attempt.

Source Link: Your First Day Without Vaping

More information ...

Common side effects of vaping include coughing, dry mouth and throat, mouth and throat irritation, shortness of breath and headaches. The routines connected to vaping are hard to stop, especially since unlike a cigarette which has an end point, people can vape for long periods of time. Research is still underway to find out the long-term effects of vaping.

If you would like to quit vaping but are finding it hard, here are some steps to gradual reduction over a week with the view to quitting completely:

  • Switch from disposable vapes which can have numerous, harmful chemicals to refillable devices.
  • Gradually reduce the strength of nicotine in in the e-liquid of the refillable device.
  • Extend the time between each vape period.
  • Limit where and when you vape, limiting where and extending when.
  • Set a quit date and stop.

A few quick statistics and facts

  • In 2022 21% of UK teens had vaped in 2013 it was 4.5%10
  • Children and adolescents who vape are more than twice as likely to smoke cigarettes 12
  • Only 40% of parents were aware that their children vaped against 70% for smoking9
  • The nicotine content of one JUUL pod is equivalent to one pack of cigarettes26
  • The nicotine content of one EFL bar is equivalent to 48/50 cigarettes or two and a half packs of cigarettes6
  • Vaping poses a risk to lungs12 – In 2016 nearly 200 e-cigarette users developed severe lung disease in 22 states across USA
  • Vaping often contains nicotine even when the juice is nicotine free13 which is highly addictive and affects brain development particularly in young people7
What happens if you are caught vaping under 18 UK

These new powers to issue Fixed Penalty notices are in addition to a maximum £2,500 fine that courts can already impose. The government will also be providing an additional £30 million a year for enforcement agencies to support work on underage and illicit sales of tobacco products and vapes.

What is the danger of children using vapes?

Children should never vape. The number of children using vapes has tripled in the last three years.

The active ingredient in most vapes is nicotine, which when inhaled, is a highly addictive drug. The addictive nature of nicotine means that a user can become dependent on vapes, especially if they use them regularly.

 

What happens to my body when I stop vaping?

Physical symptoms include “headaches, sweating, tremors, insomnia, increased appetite, abdominal cramps, and constipation,” 

These are the first effects you're likely to feel, often within four to 24 hours after quitting.

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