Over 28,000 illegal vapes have been seized by Hertfordshire Trading Standards in 2025 as part of a growing effort to tackle unsafe and unregulated vaping products being sold in the county. 

Hertfordshire County Council has now launched a new youth-led awareness campaign aimed at educating young people about the risks of vaping and nicotine dependency — a concern echoed by parents, schools, and health professionals across North Herts and beyond. 

Central to the initiative is an eye-catching "Vape Brain" sculpture, created by 3D Design students from Herts Regional College using discarded boxes from the seized devices. The installation — shaped like a brain — highlights the impact nicotine can have on mental health and has been specifically designed to spark conversations about vaping in schools. 

Youth voices at the heart of the campaign

One of the student creators, Milena, said vaping companies often target young people with enticing flavours and packaging that make vaping seem harmless. She hopes the sculpture helps students think twice and make healthier choices. 

Deputy Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety, Dr Allison Wren, added that while vaping is often seen as less harmful than smoking, many young people wrongly believe it can relieve stress — when in reality nicotine dependency can increase anxiety and affect mental well-being. 

Touring schools and spreading awareness

The "Vape Brain" sculpture will tour schools across Hertfordshire, accompanied by lesson plans and discussions designed to help students understand the facts about vaping and addiction. The campaign also includes a youth-led social media drive sharing factual information and quitting tips. 

Youth vaping among 11- to 17-year-olds has nearly doubled since 2019 nationally, and although rates in Hertfordshire remain below national levels, fewer than 40 % of young people in the county believe vaping is harmful to health. 

How parents and schools can help

Parents and carers are being encouraged to talk openly with their children about the risks of vaping and to watch for signs of nicotine dependency like irritability, cravings, difficulty concentrating, or mood changes. 

Schools in Hitchin and surrounding areas interested in hosting the sculpture and resources can contact Hertfordshire County Council for details, and members of the public are urged to report any suspected illegal sales online. 

For more information about the campaign and support resources, visit: hertfordshire.gov.uk/VapeBrain.