Hackney is taking a new approach to vaping, focusing on harm reduction, according to discussions at the Hackney Health and Wellbeing Board meeting on Thursday 26 June 2025.
The board reviewed the latest evidence on vaping and endorsed a position statement developed with the City and Hackney Tobacco Control Alliance (TCA). The TCA's position is clear: if you don't smoke, don't vape.
Professor Ann McNeill from King's College London presented updated evidence on the health impacts of vaping, covering the risks, its role in smoking cessation, and the impact on adolescents. The discussion also covered the best regulatory framework for vaping.
The board also received updates on several other key initiatives:
- MATCH Programme: An overview of the eMbedding heAlth equiTy in City & Hackney (MATCH) programme, designed to reduce inequalities across City & Hackney. The board approved the proposed plan for Year 3 of the programme.
- The Brunch Bunch: The board heard about the work of the Brunch Bunch, a group with lived experience of homelessness, mental health issues, and substance use, who partner with STEPS to co-produce support for their community. STEPS stands for Supporting Transitions and Empowering People Service.
- Substance Use Support: An overview of performance across the substance use system in Hackney, highlighting increased investment and improved access to treatment since 2021.
- Better Care Fund: The board noted the sign-off of the 2025-2026 Better Care Fund, a program joining up health and care services to support individual health and wellbeing.
For more details, you can review the full agenda and reports pack.