20 years ago tomorrow, on Sunday 26 March 2006, Scotland became one of the first countries in the world to pass a new UK-leading law to protect people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke in indoor public spaces.
Since its introduction, smoking rates in Scotland have nearly halved, with around half a million fewer Scots smoking today compared to 2006.
To celebrate this landmark anniversary, which takes place tomorrow on Thursday 26 March 2026, NHS Lanarkshire is supporting ASH Scotland and the University of Stirling’s campaign to highlight the positive impacts demonstrated by this innovative law. These include various benefits to health, air quality as well as shifts in behaviour and attitudes.
The legislation transformed enclosed public spaces including bars, restaurants and most workplaces. The smoke-free impacts were widely studied, providing robust evidence that helped other nations in the UK and across the world to follow suit.
As well as discouraging people from starting smoking, the law has significantly reduced exposure to second-hand smoke. People who don’t smoke in Scotland now breathe up to 97% less second-hand smoke in indoor environments – marking a major public health achievement.
Kat Jarvie, Senior Health Improvement Manager – Quit Your Way, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “We welcome all initiatives that support people to quit smoking and ensure children can grow up in smoke-free environments. It is equally important that we continue to protect those who don’t smoke from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
“This legislation is linked to a 17% reduction in hospital admissions for heart attacks, highlighting its vital role in saving lives and reducing hospital attendance for smoking related conditions.
“Smoking is extremely addictive, and we know it’s not easy to stop. The NHS Scotland Quit Your Way service offers personalised support, understanding advice and nicotine replacement therapy to support anyone looking to quit smoking.”
Professor Sean Semple of the Institute for Social Marketing and Health – University of Stirling, said: “Scotland has made fantastic progress in tackling exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke since smoke-free public spaces became law in 2006.
“On this 20th anniversary of one of our most important public health measures, it is important that we celebrate the difference it has made to our health through improving indoor air quality in our workplaces and leisure settings.
“We hope people across Scotland will join us in recognising the significant impact of 20 years of smoke-free public spaces.”
Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive, ASH Scotland, added: “Smoke-free enclosed spaces have saved lives.
“Twenty years on, we must continue to look at new ways of protecting those who are still exposed to tobacco smoke, including some workplaces and child-friendly spaces.
“People in Scotland heartily backed the original smoke-free legislation and it’s time to take a further step to clear the air and provide healthy environments for everyone, especially children.”
To find out more about information on stop smoking services, call the Quit Your Way helpline on 0800 84 84 84 or visit QuitYourWay.scot.
Quit Your Way can be contacted Monday – Friday from 9am until 5pm.
You can also visit your local Community Pharmacy for free stop smoking support.
