Winchester vape store involved in ‘anti-smoking initiative’

A local vape store, ‘Vaporium’ has partnered with an NHS anti-smoking initiative, offering a scheme to encourage smokers, to switch to vaping.

Samuel Meatcher, manager of the Andover Road branch, urges cigarette smokers to consider making the change.

“It’s always important to quit smoking, no matter whether it’s five years ago, right now or whenever,” he said.

Vaporium offers various deals on their products, as well as a £25 voucher which includes a starter kit, a pack of pods and two free liquids, for those referred from the NHS.

Sam said: “You would have around two, three weeks, maybe a months’ worth of stuff so you don’t have to worry about any outset costs for quitting.”

Cost of vaping equipment can be a turn-off for smokers that plan on quitting, which is why Vaporium believes that the voucher is a good incentive for those taking the first step.

Health risks of vaping long-term are still unknown, however Sam shared what he had learnt from his NHS training.

About 6m people in the UK are cigarette smokers, and health experts claim it to be one of the leading causes of preventable death and illness.

There remain mixed opinions surrounding vaping and whether it really is a healthier alternative.

Vaporium is the first store in Winchester to join the scheme, however across Hampshire, 27 vape shops are taking part.