In this episode of Beyond the Buzz, young people come together to talk honestly about vaping — what they see around them, what they have heard, and how common it feels in everyday life.

Voices have been anonymised to protect the privacy and safety of the young people involved due to vulnerability and safeguarding considerations.

The conversation explores why vaping is often seen as normal, how peer pressure and social media influence decisions, and the different beliefs young people have about risks and health. Participants also reflect on how easy it can be to access vapes, the reasons people try them, and the challenges of making choices when “everyone else seems to be doing it”.

Rather than delivering lectures or warnings, this episode focuses on real perspectives from young people in their own words, creating space for open discussion, questions, and reflection. The aim is to help young listeners think more critically about vaping, while also helping parents, carers, and professionals better understand what young people are experiencing and hearing.

This episode is designed to support education and prevention and can be used as a conversation starter in schools, youth settings, and at home, encouraging honest discussion about pressure, choices, and wellbeing.

⚠️ Content Notice & Disclaimer

This episode discusses vaping, peer pressure, and health-related topics. Listener discretion is advised.

The views shared are those of the young people and contributors speaking about their own experiences and perceptions. They do not represent the views or opinions of Havering Council, CGL Havering, or Youth Unity CIC, and do not constitute medical or professional advice.

This project was created to understand what young people in Havering know, feel, and experience around vaping, drugs, and alcohol, not to promote or normalise substance use.

🤝 Support & Signposting (Havering / London)

If you or someone you know would like support:

CGL Havering – Drug, Alcohol & Vaping Support

Support for young people and families

👉 https://www.changegrowlive.org/havering

NHS 111 – Mental Health Support

Call 111 and select the mental health option

Shout Crisis Text Line (24/7)

Text SHOUT to 85258

Kooth (Ages 11–25)

Free online mental health support

👉 https://www.kooth.com

If someone is in immediate danger, please call 999.

🎧 About Beyond the Buzz

Beyond the Buzz is a youth-led podcast series by Youth Unity CIC, commissioned by Havering Council Public Health and delivered in partnership with CGL Havering. The series creates safe spaces for young people to talk openly about drugs, alcohol, vaping, and the pressures they face, while building confidence, communication skills, and media experience.

Find out more at:

👉 www.youthunity.org