Smoking and Vaping
Smoking and vaping are common, and for many people they can feel hard to change. Whether you are thinking about cutting down, stopping altogether, or just want to understand the risks, support is available and you do not have to do it alone.
Smoking tobacco remains one of the biggest causes of preventable illness in the UK, increasing the risk of heart disease, cancer, lung disease, and many other health problems. Vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking, but it is not risk-free and is intended as a tool to help people stop smoking, not as a long-term habit for non-smokers.
At Wirral Ways, we support people to make informed choices about smoking and vaping, at their own pace, with access to local specialist help when they are ready
Support to Stop Smoking
If you are thinking about stopping smoking, even if you are not ready right now, specialist support can make a big difference.
On the Wirral, free stop smoking support is provided by ABL. They offer:
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One-to-one support tailored to you
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Advice on nicotine replacement products and vapes
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Practical tools to manage cravings and triggers
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Non-judgemental support, even if you have tried before
ABL Smoking Cessation Service
ABL deliver the free local smoking cessation service on the Wirral, supporting people who want to stop smoking or reduce their tobacco use in a way that works for them.
Their specialist smoking cessation clinic offers personalised, one-to-one support from trained advisors who understand that stopping smoking can be challenging and often takes more than one attempt. Support is non-judgemental, confidential, and tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
ABL can provide practical advice on managing cravings and triggers, access to nicotine replacement therapies (such as patches, gum or inhalators), and guidance on using vapes as a tool to stop smoking where appropriate. They also offer ongoing encouragement and check-ins to help people stay on track and build confidence over time.
You do not need to do this alone. Whether you are ready to stop now or just thinking about making a change, ABL’s smoking cessation service can help you take the next step at your own pace.
Vaping and Staying Safe
Vapes sold legally in the UK must meet strict safety standards. Illicit or illegal vapes may contain unsafe levels of nicotine, harmful chemicals, or faulty batteries that increase the risk of injury.
If you vape, using legal products and knowing what to look out for can help reduce harm.
Reporting Illicit Tobacco and Vapes
Illicit tobacco and illegal vapes can cause serious harm and are often sold without proper safety checks. Reporting them helps protect young people and the wider community.
Report Illicit Tobacco Sales
If you are aware of illegal tobacco being sold, you can report this confidentially.
Report Illicit or Illegal Vapes
If you have seen vapes being sold illegally, especially to under-18s, or products that do not meet UK standards, you can report this too.
How Wirral Ways Can Help
If smoking or vaping links in with your wider health, wellbeing, or substance use, Wirral Ways can support you alongside local partners. We can help you explore options, access the right services, and take steps that feel manageable for you.
If you would like to talk to someone, get advice, or find out more about your options, please get in touch.
Last Updated on 10 February 2026