Swap 2 Stop helped thousands of residents in Dorset become smoke-free

Swap 2 Stop is part of a government-funded programme aiming to reduce smoking rates by encouraging adults to become smoke-free by swapping to a vape.

For No Smoking Day 2025, Public Health Dorset reflects on the year since launching the scheme locally through LiveWell Dorset, and the difference it has made.  

One in four smokers have never tried vaping. Yet evidence shows that vaping is 95% safer than continuing to smoke cigarettes, so making the swap is a positive health move. So far, the scheme has provided 14,801 free regulated vape starter kits to eligible, ID-verified adults over 18. 

Many people who have swapped to stop smoking have shared their experience and have found the scheme positive in encouraging them quit. 

“I made the swap from smoking to vaping as inhaling no tar was my aim, and first step. I smoked 20 plus a day for over 30 years. Since swapping to vaping, I have gone from wheezing almost constantly to significantly less, without craving a cigarette.” 

“I used swap to stop in February this year and have not smoked a cigarette since. It takes a little getting used to but does work 100%. I would not have given up without the vape.” 

Public Health Dorset data shows 3,562 people who switched to vaping through the scheme were smoke-free at 4 weeks. This reinforces evidence that being smoke-free for 28 days greatly increases the chances of quitting for good. 

Rachel Partridge, acting Director of Public Health Dorset for Dorset Council and BCP Council said “We’re pleased our Swap 2 Stop offer has been able to help thousands of people to quit to improve their health and wellbeing throughout Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. It’s provided the chance to swap to nicotine vaping which is one of the most effective tools for quitting smoking. 

“We know how challenging it can be to break the addiction to smoking tobacco. Offering various smoking cessation options is key to giving people a greater chance of becoming smoke-free using a method that works for them. 

“I urge anyone who is ready to quit smoking, to seek support from our stop smoking services. They will guide you, provide tips and advice on aids and tools to make your journey a successful one. It really is never too late to stop smoking and it’s much easier with the right support behind you.” 

Public Health Dorset’s statement on vaping is: If you smoke, vaping is much safer, but it isn’t entirely risk-free, so if you don’t smoke, don’t vape. 

Dorset residents who are ready to start their quit journey can find out what free stop smoking support is available by visiting www.publichealthdorset.org.uk/stop-smoking. This includes a variety of options such as 12-weeks of support from a GP or pharmacy and coaching sessions, NRT and more through LiveWell Dorset.