Smokefree Rotherham is a partnership with the aim of encouraging smokefree norms and implementing tobacco control measures. In order to prevent young people from taking up smoking we must ensure tobacco education is promoted across our schools and colleges and work to restrict access to counterfeit and smuggled tobacco. In addition we must continue to promote a Smokefree Rotherham and promote healthy lifestyles.

Local work on tobacco control has focused on the implementation of the Health Act (2006) and associated regulations to create smokefree work and public places, end under age sales and promote awareness of the dangers of smoking.  The implementation of smokefree legislation on workplaces and public places and under aged sales has proved to be a success with high levels of compliance locally and nationally. It is important, however, to note that smokefree legislation is far from the end of the road for tobacco control policy.

The evidence is clear; in order for the people of Rotherham to experience the same level of health as in other parts of the country a robust and comprehensive tobacco control programme must be pursued. Further actions will be detailed following the approval of the Health Bill (2009).