“Despite another challenging year for our sector due to coronavirus we have seen a number of defining moments which have given a big lift to the industry and put it firmly in the spotlight for the right reasons,” opens the report.
Not least, UKVIA states that the NHS has got behind vaping “in a way not seen before”. It is looking forward to seeing the results of the University of East Anglia trial where smokers attending Accident and Emergency departments will be offered electronic cigarette starter kits.
UKVIA also celebrates the conclusion of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) consultation which now places vaping on a par with traditional nicotine replacement therapies like gum and patches.
The UKVIA built on the positive steps taken by health bodies by launching its first campaign targeted at healthcare professionals providing “a range of support resources to help those in their care quit smoking for good.”
It proudly states: “We reached out to all 200 plus NHS Trusts across the country.”
The organisation highlights that, in March 2021, it launched its Blueprint for Better Regulation. The package of recommendations was delivered to the government with a view to “maximising the public health benefits of vaping and bolstering ambitions for a ‘Smokefree 2030’.”
UKVIA urged the government to incorporate these recommendations in the ongoing Tobacco and Related Products Regulations review.
John Dunne, Director General, said: “As we enter our sixth year, now firmly established as the UK’s largest trade association and highly respected on the world stage, I would like to thank all our members for all their invaluable contributions and support during the year.
“Despite the situation of the last two years, we have grown exponentially as a trade association and we should be a 100 strong next year, which will make our voice even louder in the future.
“As I come to the end of my first year as Director General, I will reflect with immense pride on the achievements of both the UKVIA and the industry during the last 12 months and let’s ensure that together we continue the momentum created by the key turning points of the last year into the new year and beyond.”
News from:https://www.planetofthevapes.co.uk/news/vaping-news/2022-02-09_ukvia-annual-report-published.html