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Smoke-free Generation

The national Smoke-free Generation campaign will raise awareness and understanding of the new age-of-sale legislation, helping adults and young people understand what is changing, when and why.

Please note that these assets should not be published externally until 16 November 2026.

Campaign details

Related website
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/tobacco-vapes-act/

Target audience: Adults, Young adults

Topics: Quitting smoking

Campaign start date: 16 November 2026

Campaign end date: Always on

Campaign Background

As part of the 10-Year Health Plan, the introduction of Smoke-free Generation legislation marks a major milestone in improving the nation's health. From 1 January 2027, anyone born in or after 2009 will never legally be sold tobacco, bringing us closer to a future free from the harms of smoking.

Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of ill health, disability and premature death. The Smoke-free Generation legislation has been introduced to break the cycle of tobacco addiction and protect future generations from the harms of tobacco, creating a healthier, fairer future for everyone.

While the legislation is an important step forward, its success depends on public awareness, understanding and support. This toolkit provides campaign materials, key messages and practical guidance to help you, our partners, to raise awareness of the change, support the national Smoke-free Generation campaign, and ultimately to contribute to the successful implementation of Smoke-free Generation legislation.

The Smoke-free Generation forms part of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, which became law on 29 April 2026. The Act introduces a range of measures relating to tobacco, vaping and nicotine products.

Published: 3 November 2026