THE NHS Board heard on Monday that further action is needed to reduce smoking and vaping outside NHS buildings.
This follows ongoing concern about people continuing to smoke on hospital grounds, despite long-standing smoke-free rules designed to protect patients, staff and visitors.
Chair of the Public Health Committee Gwilym Gibbons said: “NHS sites must be places that promote health and recovery.
“Smoking and vaping are not permitted on our grounds, and we now need to see consistent compliance with that policy.”
Smoking is illegal within 15 metres of hospital buildings, and anyone breaching the law may be issued with a £50 fixed penalty notice or face a fine of up to £1,000 if the case goes to court.
Enforcement activity in partnership with colleagues from Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Environmental Health Service will take place over a focused period in the coming months, with refusals to comply expected to result in formal penalties.
Those responsible for implementing the policy stressed that enforcement will be firm but proportionate, with the aim of creating safer, healthier environments rather than punishing people unnecessarily.
Support to stop smoking continues to be available across Dumfries and Galloway, with the Quit Your Way service and community pharmacies exceeding national targets for helping people living in communities facing greater health inequalities to quit.
Specialist support is also available for pregnant women, young people and long-term smokers.
Members of the public are being urged to respect smoke-free rules when visiting hospitals and other NHS premises, and to seek support to quit where needed.
Speaking after the Public Health Committee report was presented to NHS Board today, Mr Gibbons said: “We are not trying to catch people out. There is extensive support available for anyone who wants help to stop smoking, and we would strongly encourage people to use it.
“Enforcement is about protecting others and making sure NHS grounds are healthy places for everyone.”
The focus on a smoking was contained within a wider Public Health Committee report, which also highlighted strong performance in areas such as blood borne virus and sexual health services, diabetic eye screening, smoking cessation support and health protection.
The report recognised the commitment of staff working across public health services, wider NHS teams and multi-agency partners to continue to keep focus on efforts to improve population health across Dumfries and Galloway.