Get Ready for Smoke Free County Durham

From 6.00am on 1 July 2007 the new Smoke Free legislation comes into effect in England. This means that all enclosed or substantially enclosed work or public places must be smoke free. Smoke free is about protecting others from the effects of second hand smoke.

The legislation includes:

• Correct "No Smoking" signage to be displayed.
• Ensure enforcement of the legislation within premises and vehicles.
• Penalties that can be incurred for not displaying the correct signage and failing to ensure that staff and visitors comply.
• Exceptions for some establishments.

Further information and advice is available to businesses, employers, communities and individuals on the Smokefree England website. Information about signage is also available on this website.

Durham County Council has recently reviewed its Smoking Policy within Council premises and vehicles in line with the forthcoming legislation.

If you are a smoker and would like to give up smoking, there are local Stop Smoking Services available in County Durham. Information is available via the Health Promotion in County Durham and Darlington website. You can find out about one to one support, group support and drop-ins in your local area.

You can also get help from the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 1690169 or visit the Give Up Smoking website at giving up smoking