Young people in Barking and Dagenham are being encouraged to use a new anonymous reporting website, Save Something Save Someone, launched by London Trading Standards, to raise concerns about the sale and use of vapes in their local area.
Protecting young people from the sale of illegal products is a key priority for the council. In 2024/25, the council:
- Carried out 79 underage test purchase operations
- Seized 5,929 illegal vapes
- Clamped down on the sale of disposable vapes following new regulations
- 45 businesses found to be breaking the law around vapes.
Vaping can help adults who smoke and want to quit tobacco, but they are not risk-free. It is illegal for young people under the age of 18 purchase and use vapes. Evidence associates vaping with starting a nicotine addiction, asthma, and poor mental health. There are also concerns about the content of illegal vapes, with up to 1 in 4 vapes confiscated in schools nationally containing the synthetic drug ‘spice’, and many others containing harmful additives beyond nicotine.
The new campaign empowers young people across London to share vital information about how vapes are being obtained - whether through shops illegally selling them or even giving them away for free to get them hooked.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “We’re proud to support this important initiative that gives young people a voice in tackling the illegal sale of vapes. By reporting anonymously, they can help us crack down on those who are putting their health at risk. This is about protecting our community and making sure retailers play by the rules.”
Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Integration said: “We know that vaping can be harmful, especially when young people are exposed to illegal or unregulated products.
“As we mark Stoptober, it’s a timely reminder that support is available for anyone who wants to quit smoking or vaping.”
Young people can access the reporting tool here: Say something Save someone - London Trading Standards
The council provides non-judgemental support to young people addicted to vapes (or cigarettes), which can be access directly online.