Mum's horror as autistic teen son hooked on 'snus'

Schoolboy develops addiction after being coerced into buying products for others

- SALLY HIND

A mum has told how her 13-year-old autistic son got hooked on trendy 'snus' after being forced to buy nicotine products for other teenagers.

The healthcare worker, from Wishaw, spoke out as a leading advice charity warned of a worrying surge in reports of young people experimenting with the nicotine pouches - widely used by sports stars and celebrities.

The “devastated” mum said her son had been “coerced” by other youngsters, some who carry knives, to buy vapes - even though he is clearly underage.

Now he has been caught stealing to fund his own habit for vapes and white tobacco pouches, which users place between their upper lip and gum.

The 41-year-old, who has turned to Advice Direct Scotland for support, said: "It's like living with an addict now because that's what these things are - addictive.

“His personality has changed. He used to be quite calm but now he goes into a meltdown if he can't get a vape or snus.

"I'm absolutely devastated. My son is only 13. He's autistic and vulnerable and yet he's been coerced and manipulated by older kids who should know better.