Unlike Reform UK, which celebrates smoking and all of its consequences, Dorset Council is doing all it can to reduce the number of young people impacted. Part of this strategy is to ensure that all shops that sell tobacco products do so responsibly.
Officers from Dorset Council’s Trading Standards, supported by a young volunteer, carried out a series of underage sales test‑purchasing checks of tobacco at seven retail premises in the East Dorset area in recent weeks.
Some of the businesses visited were those where allegations of sales to minors had previously been reported. Prior to the operation, these retailers were reminded in writing of their legal responsibilities regarding age‑restricted products and the importance of safeguarding young people.
During the operation, the volunteer—who was under 18—attempted to buy tobacco or cigarettes from each of the seven premises who all refused the sale.
Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Housing, said: “It is encouraging to see full compliance from all the businesses visited during this operation. Protecting young people from the harms of tobacco is a key priority for us, and responsible retailers play an essential role in that. We thank those who continue to follow the law and uphold high standards in our communities.”
Any business found to be selling age-restricted products to minors risk enforcement action. And we remain committed to protecting children from harm and ensuring compliance with the law.
Businesses in Dorset can access comprehensive staff training and supporting materials on age‑restricted sales through the Proof of Age Standards Scheme online. Small businesses may be eligible to receive this training free of charge.
If you suspect a business is selling age-restricted products to underage customers, report it to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice. Tel: 0808 223 1133, or Report IT service at Report IT – Trading Standards South West
