Just six fines issued after hospital smoking ban
Just six fines have been issued since smoking was banned within the grounds of two hospitals in the summer.
Health bosses say the low number of fines is evidence the system is working well at Sandwell and City hospitals, with a number of patients and visitors putting their cigarettes out after being warned by security staff.
Smoking was completely banned within the grounds of the two hospitals in July as part of a health drive by the Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospital Trust.
Chief executive Toby Lewis said at the time the ban was not a "money-making exercise" and that he hoped no-one would be fined.
Wardens were brought in to patrol the grounds to ensure the ban is enforced.
Anyone caught lighting up is told to stop. If they ignore the orders or are seen smoking again on the site, they will then be hit with a £50 fine, reduced to £25 if paid within 14 days.
But so far only half a dozen have been issued.
The NHS trust also made international headlines when it became the first in the UK to open vape shops at Sandwell Hospital, encouraging staff who smoke to switch by offering discounts.
Mr Lewis said: “We continue to enforce our trust-wide smoking ban, including in cars parked on our grounds.
Our security team along with staff have successfully challenged a number of people caught smoking on site.
"However, since the introduction of the ban we have issued six fines.
"We continue to enforce the policy and smoking wardens patrol the sites along with security officers. CCTV is also monitored.
“This month is Stoptober and so we also want to take this opportunity to remind people that there are a number of ways they can quit the habit, which includes using the local Stop Smoking Service or by accessing Sandwell’s Everyone Health Stop Smoking Service.
"Inpatients continue to be offered smoking alternatives such as nicotine replacement therapy."
