A new e-learning resource is aiming to address the growing use of nicotine pouches in schools.
ASH Scotland has developed the free online module to help educators and youth workers in Clydebank better understand the emerging trend and its associated health risks.
Educators participating in ASH Scotland’s Youth Conversations Hub have repeatedly raised concerns about school pupils vaping and, more recently, using nicotine pouches during school time.
A report on Behaviour in Schools from the Teachers Union NASUWT shows 46% of teachers in Scotland say pupils are using nicotine pouches during school time.
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Sheila Duffy, chief executive of ASH Scotland, said: "Our new e-learning module is designed to provide a resource for educators in Clydebank to learn about the negative impacts that nicotine use can have on the lives of children and young people.
"Following the upsurge in youth vaping, a new generation is being attracted into using other addictive and health-harming products such as nicotine pouches.
"Drawing in new customers produces huge profits for the tobacco industry, but at a cost to the health and well-being of our young people and disruption in the classroom.
"We trust that our new Nicotine Pouches e-learning module will help teachers and youth workers in Clydebank to build their knowledge and confidence to start discussions with children and help them make informed choices about protecting their health and wellbeing."
Nicotine addiction can have a greater impact on young people, affecting their brain development and mental health.
The flavours and colours of these products, as well as marketing tactics such as sponsorship of Formula One races and promotions at concerts and sporting events, appeal to under 18s.
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Mike Corbett, NASUWT national official for Scotland, said: "Teachers know that nicotine pouches are being consumed within schools by pupils and have expressed serious concern that national regulation of nicotine products has failed to keep pace with innovation by the companies selling them.
"The recently published guidance for schools on how to address substance abuse among pupils was welcomed, but this is only a first step.
"We need a greater emphasis on prevention and early intervention at all ages to stop children and young people from being drawn into nicotine pouch use.
"NASUWT has therefore welcomed the e-learning materials from ASH Scotland as one part of a wider systemic response needed to tackle substance misuse in schools."
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