Carlisle has been Smokefree for a year

(Date of issue: Monday, 30 June 2008)

On 1 July 2007, Carlisle became a Smokefree City. New legislation was brought in, which affected virtually all ‘enclosed’ and ‘substantially enclosed’ public places and work places, meaning they had to become Smokefree.

This meant places like offices, factories, shops, pubs, bars, restaurants, membership clubs, as well as public transport and work vehicles that are used by more than one person, had to become Smokefree by law. This was a key public health step and its aim was to protect workers and the public from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke

Carlisle City Council enforcement staff are able to confirm that there has been a very high level of compliance with the law since day one. A total of 510 targeted visits have been made since July 1, 2007 to check for compliance.

Two government funded Smokefree Educators were employed for a year to help businesses adjust, providing advice and assistance. Subsequently enforcement activity has been taken over by officers from the Food Health and Safety Team. Thus far, the City Council has received 85 requests for advice about the new law and dealt with 67 complaints alleging non-compliance. A total of 12 warning letters have been sent out regarding non-compliance in premises and vehicles. There has been no need to serve any fixed penalty notices or to undertake any prosecutions for persistent non-compliance.

The Office for National Statistics released a survey result on 18 June 2008 showing the following statistics:

• 80% respondents agreed with the legislation
• 73% " visited pubs and clubs as often as they did before 1/7/07
• 16% " visited more often
• 11% " visited less often
• More people now do not allow smoking in their own homes 67% (2007) 61% (2006)

Cllr Olwyn Luckley, Carlisle City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Health and Communities said:

‘’ The City Council has been committed to helping local businesses adjust to this new legislation. The new legislation was introduced by Central Government in a bid to recognise a person's right to be protected from the harm of second-hand smoke. To help people to try and give up smoking by providing supportive Smokefree environments, to reduce illness and the number of deaths from medical conditions caused by second-hand smoke. The high levels of compliance in the District show that people are genuinely concerned about their health and have embraced the changes in a positive way."

Carol Hammon, manager of Walkabout said:

‘’At Walkabout we haven’t noticed any particular problems with the introduction of the Smokefree legislation, there has been no drop off in business and customers seem only too happy to comply, as we have made more than adequate provision for them outside the venue.’’

Ron Wood owner of Le Gall said:

‘’The introduction of the Smokefree legislation meant I was able to refurbish the interior of Le Gall, the décor is not being affected in the way that it was before the introduction of Smokefree. From the staff and customer point of view they find it much more pleasant environment to be in, a much more pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere.’’

To make an appointment for Smokefree advice and support, contact the City Council on 01228 817336 or by email foodandsafety@carlisle.gov.uk