Message from the Head of Centre on smoking and vaping
Dear parents and carers
Update to Smoking and Vaping Policy
As you will be aware, the Constance Bridgeman Centre is a no-smoking site, and our search procedures do not only take account of drugs, but extend to drug paraphernalia such as grinders, and legal highs such as nitrous oxide.
The law is such that while it is not illegal for under-age children to smoke or to use vapes, it is illegal to supply cigarettes or vapes to individuals under 18. In addition, in practice there is a lack of clarity about what substances might be contained in a vape.
After thought and discussion, I am updating our policy and procedure in this respect, with effect from Monday 14th November 2022.
From that date, students will not be allowed to bring on site any cigarettes, tobacco, or vapes, including related products such as cigarette papers, filters, lighters etc., most of these being age-restricted items anyway. If these are revealed during our customary entry search procedures, they will be confiscated and not returned to the student.
Our procedures regarding drugs and drug paraphernalia remain unaffected.
We are informing students and their families of this in advance, and I hope you will understand this is part of our larger efforts to care for the wellbeing of your child.
Action on Smoking and Health has produced an interesting research document on Use of Vapes among Young People in UK should you wish to find out more.
Thanks and best wishes,
Tony