Concerns growing on vaping

BARWON Child, Youth and Family is receiving requests from education providers for information on vaping amid concerns about the habit among young people.

Josie Taylor, manager of alcohol, other drugs and mental health services, said BCYF was aware of an increase in vaping among young people.

“This could be due to a common belief that vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes, however there is growing evidence regarding harms that can be attributed to vaping,” Ms Taylor said.

She said BCYF was receiving requests to provide education in respect to vaping.

“We are not currently funded to provide drug education, however we do support schools and young people – either through direct contact or brief intervention with the young person, or by providing resources to the person seeking support so they can better understand the issue,” she said.

Ms Taylor said it was important not to judge a young person but educate them with information about possible harms and explore their individual choices.