Young people's views on vaping and vaping additional substances
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Healthwatch Blackburn with Darwen explores what young people in Blackburn with Darwen understand about vaping, including using vapes with illegal substances, as well as their attitudes and opinions on vaping. They spoke to 107 young people aged 11- 17 through surveys and discussions.
Vaping is common among the young people Healthwatch spoke to, with over half stating that they vape. Many said that most or all of their friends vape. They also know about vapes with substances such as THC and Spice and some have tried them which raises concerns about the growing use of illegal substances in vapes. It is reportedly easy for them to get vapes from friends, shops or other informal sources.
The findings show that vaping is often about fitting in with friends and seeming " cool" . Many young people know about the basic risks to their health, mental health and the law. However, this does not necessarily deter them from vaping. Some use vaping to deal with boredom, stress or anxiety.
There is clear gap between what young people think they know about the risks and the facts.