The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: ASH Scotland is the leading voluntary organisation campaigning for effective tobacco control legislation. Following a public announcement of a voluntary approach to controlling second-hand smoke, promoted by both government and hospitality trade, ASH Scotland founded and launched Scotland CAN! (Cleaner Air Now!) in May 2000. The campaign aimed for legislation to restrict smoking in Scotland's public places. A coalition was formed comprising some of Scotland's most respected voluntary and health organisations. The coalition enabled us to coordinate messages, build capacity and effectively inform media, general public and political audiences.

Methods: To build a culture within the coalition that maximised information sharing and evidence-based policy formation for simple, but clear health messages; we reviewed Scotland CAN's membership to ensure it was comprehensive and representative. The Coalition's work was also re-structured to ensure efficient use of member's time and resources. Clear structures and effective working patterns allowed us to rapidly rebut attempts from opposition to deny the health risks of second-hand smoke. Resources were maximised through co-operation, shared media events and a matrix of key dates and activities. The combined weight of so many influential organisations using a shared information base, common terms and co-coordinating activities, highly impacted on decision-makers in politics and the media.

Results: Scotland CAN! effectively championed the smoke-free public places legislation in Scotland. Scotland will become smokefree in March 2006. The Scottish Health Minister Andy Kerr MSP has repeatedly stated that the Scotland CAN! Coalition was hugely important in persuading the public and politicians of the need to do so.