Slough Borough Council would like to congratulate everyone who has been involved in the success of the first year of a smokefree Slough.
Slough celebrates success of being smokefree for a year.Last year, a survey conducted by the council, found residents were happier with eating and drinking establishments being smokefree, than in 2006.
Businesses in Slough town have done extremely well since July 1 2007, especially the pubs and clubs, which have been very cooperative with the ban and the council.
The primary aim of the legislation was to protect workers and the general public from exposure to the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
Local authority inspections throughout England, including Slough, confirm that the vast majority of enclosed public places and workplaces have been free from tobacco smoke, with very high compliance reported from day one.
The smokefree law was an important step for public health in England and its introduction has resulted in a significant reduction in second-hand tobacco smoke with its damaging effects on health. Now everyone has the right to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, healthier environment.
The current consultation on the future of tobacco control is now helping to keep up the momentum to create a truly smokefree future.
Businesses are required to keep the area to the front of their premises free from litter and the council recommends that cigarette bins are mounted where appropriate.
Levine Whitham, senior environmental health officer for Slough Borough Council, said: “We are really delighted that Slough has been a success with the smoking ban within the first year.
“Many people, both smokers and non smokers, are happier than ever now the ban is in place and are enjoying a smokefree environment when they go out.”
Commissioner for health and wellbeing, Cllr Chrissy Small, added: “I’m extremely pleased that Slough has become a smokefree town and that everyone has made a real effort in the first year.
“It will be best for everyone concerned and make for a healthier life.”
Smokefree Slough is part of the council’s new cleaner, safer, greener Slough campaign to help give the residents of Slough a healthier life in their town.
A free smoking cessation service is available in Slough from the NHS Stop Smoking Service and can be accessed through local pharmacies, GP’s or by contacting the Berkshire East Stop Smoking Service.
The national smokefree compliance line to report breaches in the law is 0800 587 1667 and Slough’s smokefree hotline is 0800 953 0130 for any advice and information.
For more advice and information on this service, please call 0800 169 0 169.
Slough Borough Council
