Liverpool prepares for smokefree generation as new tobacco sales ban starts 1 January 2027

From the first day of 2027, it will become an offence to sell tobacco, herbal smoking items or cigarette papers to anyone whose birthdate falls on or after 1 January 2009, creating a legally protected smokefree generation.

The age limit will not stay static; each year the minimum legal purchase age will increase by one year, meaning the ban will tighten progressively. In addition, anyone aged 18 or older who attempts to purchase those products on behalf of a protected individual will also be breaking the law.

Regional opinion appears to be in favour of the approach, with two-thirds of respondents across the North West endorsing the smokefree-generation concept. Among smokers surveyed, more than three-quarters said they would not have started smoking if they could go back in time.

Local statistics underline the relevance of the policy: 11.9 % of adults in Liverpool currently smoke, and the habit is disproportionately common in the city’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods, contributing to health inequalities that the council aims to narrow.

In the run-up to the change, Liverpool City Council is calling on retailers, enforcement partners, health providers and community groups to prepare. Retail outlets will need to display a revised age-of-sale notice and understand the new rules that prohibit proxy purchases. Councillor Harry Doyle described the 100-day countdown as a vital period to ensure everyone knows what is expected and why the change matters.

Public health director Professor Matthew Ashton stressed that legislation alone will not end tobacco use. He urged retailers and partners to become familiar with the new requirements and highlighted the importance of offering non-judgemental, effective quitting support to those who still smoke.

People in Liverpool who want help quitting can contact Smoke Free Liverpool for free, confidential assistance by texting QUIT1 to 61825 or visiting the service’s website. The council says it will keep working with local partners to reduce smoking-related health gaps as the new law takes effect.