Pilot vape action group targets illegal sales

A Kent partnership which aims to tackle illegal vape sales says it has seen a drop in the offence since it launched.

The Local Vape Action (LVA) partnership began in Tunbridge Wells in September and brought together Kent County Council, Kent Police and the Independent British Vape Trade Association.

The partnership said although it had seen a decrease in the number of illegal sales, more engagement was needed to tackle the issue and encourage recycling of used vapes.

Astra Birch, cabinet member for housing and communities at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said the authority was "delighted" with the progress of the pilot.

As part of the pilot, more than 40 retailers were visited by the local Trading Standards group between September and December to check they were meeting statutory obligations.

Retailers were asked about age-verification policies, in-store signage, compliant vape products and vape takeback schemes.

Trading Standards also conducted a test purchasing exercise, with a pass rate of 20% among the 20 shops that were visited.

"No offence was committed as the young person was of age, but this highlights the issues around not asking for ID appropriately and the further work required around the sale of vapes to younger people," the LVA said.

LVA commissioned research of 200 adults in the area and found almost three-quarters wanted to see action against people who were caught selling to children.

The results of the initiative, along with others across the country, will inform the ongoing development of a national LVA.

The pilot will continue in Tunbridge Wells and provide updated guidance in the lead-up to the ban on single-use vapes from 1 June.

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