Richmond-upon-Thames has recorded the second lowest smoking rate of any local authority in England, with just 5.3 per cent of residents now smoking.

The borough's success is being credited to its Stop Smoking Service, run in partnership with local NHS providers, and its participation in the Government-backed 'Swap to Stop' scheme, which offers free vape starter kits and behavioural support to adult smokers.

According to the NHS England data, 58 per cent of residents who engaged with the service over the past year successfully quit smoking, placing Richmond among the most effective cessation services in London and well above the capital's average quit rate.

The figures leave Richmond close to the national 'smokefree' target, defined as smoking prevalence of below 5 per cent by 2030.

Central to Richmond's approach is its full endorsement of vaping for adult smokers as a harm-reduction tool.

The council states that vaping is now recognised as an effective stop-smoking aid, with no greater risk of adverse effects than licensed nicotine medications.

Officials also point out that cigarettes contain around 7,000 chemicals, many of them toxic, and that switching to vaping significantly reduces health risks.

Vapes are also the most popular and effective aid currently used by people trying to quit smoking.

Since 2024, Richmond has supported the national Swap to Stop scheme, providing free e-cigarette starter kits to smokers aged over 18 who may not otherwise be able to afford them.

These are offered alongside one-to-one behavioural support from trained advisors.

Despite its success, the council acknowledges that smoking is becoming increasingly concentrated among certain groups.

Those in routine or manual jobs and people experiencing mental illness are less likely to quit successfully and less likely to access support.

Older residents, particularly those aged over 60, are significantly more likely to engage with the Stop Smoking Service.

As a result, the council plans to refocus its efforts in the coming year, including targeted outreach to people with mental health needs and greater use of social media to reach younger smokers.

Over the past year alone, the service has helped more than 178 residents quit smoking. Since 2019, more than 600 residents have stopped with council support.

The benefits of quitting are health related. The council estimates that stopping smoking can save residents around £285 a month, nearly £3,500 a year.

Richmond Council also took part in the 'Stoptober' nationwide campaign last year.