Today is National No Smoking Day and the IOW NHS is aiming to offer support for smokers across the Island to help quit.
Apparently over one million people choose National No Smoking Day to give up the habit and this year campaign organisers are hoping that number increases.
Island Quitters, the Island’s local Stop Smoking Service will be in St. James Square in Newport today between 9.30am to 4.00pm offering help and advice to anyone who’s ready to quit.
There’ll be advice and information on hand as well as goodie bags.
Specialist Advisors will also be at the Wightlink FastCat Ferry Terminal, Ryde this morning and will be visiting patients at St. Mary’s Hospital and speaking to them about No Smoking Day.
Carol Foley, NHS Smoking Cessation Advisor said: “Stopping smoking is the single biggest thing anyone can do to improve their health, but it can be difficult to stop smoking on your own. Smokers are four times more likely to stop for good if they get the right support and Island Quitters are ready to help. Last year we helped 1,100 smokers on the Island successfully quit. We work out a personal plan for people who want to quit and will do everything we can help them to go all the way to smokefree.”
Island Quitters
Island Quitters provide stop smoking support right across the Island, offering friendly support groups and drop in sessions as well as one to one support if people prefer. Nicotine Replacement is also available at the sessions. Pharmacies can also provide help and advice as well as Nicotine Replacement Therapy – contact your local pharmacy for further details.
Just over 20% of adults on the Island smoke. Research has shown that over two thirds of them would like to stop. Here are some top tips for quitting:
o Call Island Quitters on 01983 814280 and check out the support on offer – you are 4 times more likely to stop smoking with their support.
o Take the edge off withdrawal – get some Nicotine Replacement Therapy such as patches or gum. It can double your chance of stopping – talk to your GP, pharmacist or Island Quitters
o Write down all the reasons you want to stop and keep your list somewhere handy as a reminder to keep you motivated
o Get help – talk to your friends, family and workmates – support from them is essential – why not quit together and keep each other motivated?
