Twenty years ago, on Sunday 26 March 2006, Scotland became one of the first countries in the world to introduce 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 on Thursday 26 March 2026, NHS Ayrshire & Arran 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.
Quit Your Way Health Improvement Lead for NHS Ayrshire & Arran, Fiona Smith said: “We welcome all initiatives that support people to quit smoking and ensure children can grow up in smoke-free environments. It is 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 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.”
Anyone who wants to stop smoking or vaping should get in touch with Quit Your Way and take the first step toward quitting. Quit Your Way Ayrshire & Arran can be contacted Monday – Friday from 9am until 4pm by calling 0800 783 9132 or visit: www.nhsaaa.net/services/services-a-z/better-health/smoking/stopping-smoking/. Support is also available from your local Community Pharmacy.