Leopardstown Park Hospital Launches Tobacco-Free Campus to Promote Health and Environmental Responsibility
Leopardstown Park Hospital is proud to announce the official launch of its Tobacco-Free Campus Policy, which comes into effect from 1st September 2025. This important initiative is part of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to health promotion, resident wellbeing, and environmental responsibility.
From this date forward, the use of all tobacco products, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices, is prohibited across the entire hospital campus—indoors and outdoors, including car parks and perimeter areas.
A Health-Led Culture Shift
Adrian Ahern, CEO of Leopardstown Park Hospital, welcomed the new initiative, stating:
“This is more than a policy—this is a cultural shift. As a healthcare institution, we have a duty to lead by example. Becoming a tobacco-free campus reinforces our commitment to providing a safe, therapeutic environment where health and wellbeing are prioritised.”
The initiative aligns with the HSE’s Tobacco-Free Ireland Policy and supports the goals of Healthy Ireland, which advocates for reducing tobacco use across the population.
Supportive and Inclusive Approach
In implementing the policy, Leopardstown Park Hospital has taken a supportive and inclusive approach. Cessation supports have been made available for staff, residents, and visitors who wish to stop smoking. The hospital has also partnered with the HSE’s 28-Day Quit Programme to provide resources and encouragement.
Recognising the unique needs of its resident population, the hospital will permit compassionate exemptions for residents who smoke. These will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and supported sensitively as part of their care plan.
Protecting Health and the Planet
In addition to its health benefits, the tobacco-free campus initiative carries an important environmental message. Cigarette butts are the world’s most commonly littered item, and each one can take up to 10 years to decompose, releasing toxic chemicals and microplastics into the soil and waterways.
To tackle this, ballot bins have been installed at key entry points around the hospital to support responsible disposal during the transition period. These eye-catching bins pose fun, engaging questions (e.g., “Which is better: tea or coffee?”) and allow users to vote with their cigarette butt—providing a subtle behavioural nudge while keeping the grounds litter-free.
Staff and Community Engagement
The introduction of the tobacco-free policy follows a period of staff and stakeholder consultation. Updates have been issued to trade unions including SIPTU, Fórsa, and INMO, and internal working groups have helped guide the rollout.
Edel Ambrose, Resident Services Manager and Tobacco-Free Campus Project Lead, commented:
“This has been a collaborative effort involving staff across all departments, residents, families, and volunteers. We’re proud to be taking this step forward together as a hospital community, and we will continue to support anyone who needs help during the adjustment.”
For More Information
Anyone seeking information about the new policy, supports available, or exemption processes can contact the main reception or visit the hospital website.
Contact:
Edel Ambrose
Resident Services Manager
📧 info@lph.ie
📞 01 295 5033
🌐 www.lph.ie