Issue

Smoking prevalence

1 story · discussed at 1 council meeting · 2 councils

Richmond upon Thames is focusing on targeted efforts to reduce smoking prevalence among vulnerable groups, despite achieving low overall rates.

Richmond upon Thames reported in March 2026 that its adult smoking prevalence was 6.7% for 2022/24, significantly lower than the national average of 10.9%. This success was attributed to a multi-faceted approach, including the Smoke Free App, the Swap to Stop scheme offering free vape kits, and community outreach.

Despite these low overall rates, disparities persist in Richmond upon Thames, with smoking prevalence remaining high among priority populations, including individuals with serious mental illness and those in routine and manual occupations. No upcoming council meetings are currently scheduled to discuss smoking prevalence.

Key facts

  1. Richmond upon Thames' adult smoking prevalence was 6.7% for 2022/24. Source
  2. The national average smoking prevalence was 10.9% as of 2022/24. Source
  3. Richmond upon Thames attributes its low rates to initiatives like the Smoke Free App and Swap to Stop scheme. Source
  4. Smoking prevalence remains high among vulnerable groups in Richmond upon Thames. Source
About this summary

This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.

Latest stories

  1. Richmond boasts lowest smoking rates nationally, but targeted efforts needed for vulnerable groups Richmond has achieved the nation's third lowest smoking rates, with an adult smoking prevalence of 6.7% as of 2022/24, a figure significantly lower than the national average of... Richmond upon Thames 14 March 2026