This Stoptober, University Hospitals Tees and Hartlepool Borough Council are encouraging smokers across the region to take the first step towards becoming smoke free.
As part of this year’s Stoptober campaign, we spoke to Steve Gaffney, one of Hartlepool stop smoking service’s experienced stop smoking facilitators.
Steve works with local people every day, helping them quit smoking with practical advice, personalised support and encouragement.
Here, he answers some common questions about stopping smoking and explains why Stoptober is the perfect time to make a quit attempt.
What support does the Hartlepool stop smoking service offer to people who want to quit smoking?
“The Hartlepool service provides friendly, informal and non-judgemental stop smoking support through either regular face-to-face appointments at a local Hartlepool clinic or telephone consultations over a 12-week programme. We help people choose their quitting aids, give tailored practical advice, coping strategies, and guidance to help individuals achieve and maintain a smoke free lifestyle.”
Why is it important for people to seek support when trying to stop smoking, rather than trying to quit alone?
“Trying to quit alone is difficult, it’s proven for smokers to be three times more likely to become smokefree with the help of smoking cessation advisors. We can offer help and advice on managing cravings, difficult situations, withdrawal symptoms, triggers, habits with encouragement and relapse prevention guidance.”
What are some of the health and wellbeing benefits people can expect after they stop smoking?
“Quitting smoking offers lots of physical, health, and social benefits which include reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, cancers, lung diseases and better immune function. Becoming smoke-free you can expect improved sense of smell, breathing, increased energy and stamina levels, less stress/better mental wellbeing, and of course more money in your pocket!”
What message would you give to someone in Hartlepool who is thinking about quitting smoking but hasn’t taken the first step yet?
“If you are thinking about quitting smoking, have the confidence! You’ve already made the first step thinking about it! Don’t be nervous, every successful quitter started where you are. Please give the team a call, your support is there waiting.”
The Stoptober roadshow
Throughout October, the specialist stop smoking team will be visiting communities across Teesside on a dedicated health promotion bus, offering advice, information and support to anyone thinking about quitting.
Residents can visit the team at:
- Thursday 8 October: Hartlepool, Waldon Street Car Park
- Monday 12 October: Billingham Market
- Thursday 22 October: Hartlepool, Waldon Street Car Park
- Wednesday 28 October: Stockton town centre
Councillor Christine Wiley, Chair of the adults services and public health committee at Hartlepool Borough Council said; “Stopping smoking is one of the best things people can do for their health, and Stoptober provides a great opportunity to take that first step. We know that quitting can be challenging, but no one has to do it alone. Through our partnership with University Hospitals Tees, residents can access free, expert support that is tailored to their individual needs.
“Every smoke-free journey starts with a decision to try, and the benefits can be life-changing, from improved health and wellbeing to having more money in your pocket. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about quitting to make the most of the support available this Stoptober and take the first step towards a healthier future.”
Donna Mason, specialist stop smoking adviser, said: “Smoking is an addiction and asking for help is often the first step towards overcoming it. People are much more likely to succeed when they have the right advice, encouragement and practical support behind them.
“Stoptober provides the perfect opportunity for people to make a fresh start. Every year we see people quit in time to enjoy their first smoke-free Christmas in years, sometimes even decades. And what better way to kick off the new year than with smoking a memory and not an ongoing habit!
“If you’re thinking about quitting, come and see us on the bus or get in touch on the phone. We’d love to help.”
Tailored support
For the past two years, University Hospitals Tees has delivered a commissioned specialist stop smoking service on behalf of Hartlepool Borough Council. The service has supported more than 500 quit plans and offers:
- A 12-week support programme, including nicotine replacement therapy and/or e-cigarettes
- Face-to-face clinics in community settings
- Telephone consultations
- Home visits for housebound patients
- Workplace clinics
Donna added: “Our partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council has been fantastic. By delivering services in community venues and local centres, we’re making it easier for people to access support close to home.
“Helping people achieve something they’ve struggled with for years is incredibly rewarding. Seeing lives changed through the partnership between the council and University Hospitals Tees is why we’re so passionate about what we do.”
The University Hospitals Tees smoking cessation service can be contacted on 01642 383819, Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm.