‘Let’s quit smoking together’ this Stoptober

With the right help, you will find it much easier to kick the habit for good.

Whether you’ve tried to quit before, or this is your first attempt, there are lots of different ways to help you stop smoking locally.

North East Lincolnshire Council’s stop smoking service is on hand to offer a variety of support.

This includes face-to-face support and advice, phone calls/texts and stop smoking aids that can help you to not smoke when you feel you really want to. You can also get access to a free vape starter kit, with up to 12-week supply of salts when using the service and meeting regularly with the team, as well as Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), such as nicotine patches and gum. You can use more than one of these paths.

• To find out more, discover a support venue near you or self-refer by visiting: www.nelincs.gov.uk/stop-smoking
• Call: (01472) 325500, Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 4pm, except bank holidays
• Email: wellbeingservice@nelincs.gov.uk

The council also offers free six-month premium access to the Smokefree app to set goals, track progress and stay motivated, with expert advisors on hand 24/7.

If you stop smoking for 28 days, you are five times more likely to quit for good.

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. It is never too late to quit smoking. Your body will start healing the day you quit smoking.

Did you know?

• After 2 days of not smoking, a harmful gas called carbon monoxide will have left your blood.
• After 12 weeks of not smoking, blood will be pumping through to your heart and muscles much better.
• After 9 months of not smoking, your lungs will be working better and you'll be breathing easier.

Councillor Stan Shreeve, deputy leader at North East Lincolnshire Council and portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and adult social care, said: “Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your health. When you stop, there are almost immediate improvements to your health.

“There’s no need to go it alone. It’s much easier to stop smoking when you get the right support and there are lots of options to choose from. With free vapes, NRT, one-to-one support and an app to track your progress and set goals, you have the best chance.”

He added: “Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions I ever made, and you can do it too. I feel healthier and I know I can be around to enjoy life’s special moments.”