Hi there, I’m a regular smoker in the UK and today I want to talk about something that has been a part of my life for many years – cigarettes. This small stick of tobacco has been a source of comfort, stress relief and even socialization for me and countless others in the UK. However, in recent years, the stigma surrounding cigarettes has grown and the government has implemented several measures to discourage smoking. In this article, I want to give you a glimpse into the world of cigarettes in the UK and share my thoughts and experiences as a smoker.
First things first, cigarette smoking is legal in the UK and it has been a prevalent habit for many decades. According to statistics, approximately 16% of the adult population in the UK are smokers. This may not seem like a large number, but it still equates to millions of people lighting up every day. Cigarettes can be purchased from almost any corner shop, supermarket or petrol station, making it easily accessible to anyone of legal age. In addition, there are also vending machines in select pubs and clubs where you can buy a pack of cigarettes with just a few coins.
One of the things that really stands out to me as a smoker in the UK is the packaging of cigarettes. In 2016, the government implemented plain packaging laws, which require all cigarette packs to have a dark brown color with graphic health warnings covering 65% of the front and back of the pack. Gone are the days of flashy and colorful cigarette packs, now all brands have the same dull appearance. This move was met with mixed reactions, some smokers felt that it would have no effect on their smoking habits while others felt it was a strong deterrent.
Another issue that has caused a lot of debate is the price of cigarettes in the UK. As a smoker, I can attest to the fact that cigarettes are not cheap. With each budget, the government increases the tax on tobacco products, making it more expensive for smokers to indulge in their habit. A pack of 20 cigarettes can cost anywhere from £9 to £13, depending on the brand. This can really add up, especially for heavy smokers, and it’s no secret that many people turn to cheaper alternatives such as rolling their own cigarettes or purchasing from the black market.
The government has also implemented several policies to try and reduce the number of smokers in the UK. These include banning smoking in public places such as restaurants, pubs, and indoor workspaces. Being a smoker, I can understand the reasoning behind this, as it helps non-smokers avoid second-hand smoke and reduces the visibility of smoking, especially to children. However, it can be frustrating for smokers as we are limited to designated areas or have to step outside to have a cigarette.
As a smoker, I have had my fair share of judgement and comments from non-smokers. The truth is, we are very much aware of the health risks associated with smoking. The constant reminders from the government and health campaigns make it hard to ignore. But for many smokers, it’s not as simple as just quitting. Smoking is an addiction and it’s not easy to give up something that has been a part of our routine for so long. I also feel that it’s important to respect personal choices and not shame or look down upon someone for indulging in a legal habit.
Despite all the negative aspects, there are some positives to being a smoker in the UK. For one, there is a sense of community among smokers, especially in designated areas where we can bond over a shared love for cigarettes. There are also inherent social benefits, such as having a reason to step outside and take a break, or even having something to talk about with someone who may have a different background or interests.
One aspect that has been gaining momentum in recent years is the rise in popularity of e-cigarettes or vaping. These battery-operated devices simulate the act of smoking by vaporizing a liquid solution containing nicotine. As someone who has tried vaping, I can see why it has become a popular alternative to smoking. It’s perceived as less harmful as there is no smoke involved, and there are a variety of flavors to choose from. However, it is a controversial topic as there is still a lack of research on the long-term effects of vaping and some health experts have raised concerns.
In conclusion, as a regular smoker in the UK, I can say that cigarettes are a part of our culture and they will continue to be for the foreseeable future. The government’s efforts to reduce smoking have had some impact, but ultimately, it’s a personal choice to smoke or not. As a smoker, I do hope that we can find a way to balance the health risks with the enjoyment we get from smoking. And for non-smokers, I hope this article has given you some insight into the world of cigarettes in the UK and encouraged you to be more understanding towards those who choose to light up.