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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Guardian readers

Smoking ban 10 years on: share your memories and experiences

At the Miners Arms pub in Bristol, outdoor smokers were provided with high visibility jackets to protect them from traffic as the ban came into force.
At the Miners Arms pub in Bristol, outdoor smokers were provided with high visibility jackets to protect them from traffic as the ban came into force. Photograph: Anthony Devlin/PA

Ten years have passed since venues across England moved their smokers outdoors and ensured people could work, drink and dine without passive inhalation.

Bans in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales all preceded that of England, meaning that on 1 July 2007 all indoor UK venues went smoke free following recommendations put in place by the Health Act 2006.

We would like to hear your memories of the ban and how it has changed your life over the last decade.

Maybe you work in the hospitality industry or did so at the time and the ban affected your work or your business? Were you encouraged to quit smoking as the ban came into force? Were you one of many who reported a different “culture” among smokers forced into designated outdoor spaces whatever the weather? Did you agree or disagree with the ban at the time – and has your view changed? In light of further action such as the ban on smoking in cars with children, do you think the government is doing enough?

How to contribute

You can share your stories – anonymously if you prefer – using the encrypted form below. Only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will feature some of your responses in our coverage. You can also upload any photos you think might add to your story – perhaps a picture of you before the ban came into place.

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