Today is National No Smoking Day and official figures point to more than two thirds of the Isle of Wight’s smokers wanting to quit.
Chamber Health and the Local NHS Stop Smoking Service contacted us with advice for those hoping to kick the habit, along with employers seeking a healthier workplace.
Smoking causes approximately 100 deaths on the Island every year.
Carol Foley, NHS Smoking Cessation Advisor on the Island said: “Smokers are four times more likely to stop for good if they get the right support and the Island’s Local NHS Stop Smoking Service are ready to help. 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 smoke-free.”
Mobile unit in St. Thomas’ Square
Today there will be a Chamber Health mobile unit in St. Thomas’ Square all day to advise smokers and answer questions and the Island’s Local NHS Stop Smoking Service will have a display outside St Mary’s Full Circle Restaurant offering help and advice.
Help for Island businesses
Chamber Health can also support Island businesses in setting up their own No Smoking groups. Those interested can telephone 01983-554545 or e-mail Jossllin, Health Care Assistant, Chamber Health or Lynette Herbst, Nurse Manager at Chamber Health.
Stop smoking tips
For those of you wanting to stop, here are some top tips from the Chamber Health and Stop Smoking Service:
- Call the Island’s Local NHS Stop Smoking Service on 01983 814280 and check out the support on offer – you are 4 times more likely to stop smoking with their support.
- 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 the Local NHS Stop Smoking Service
- Write down all the reasons you want to stop and keep your list somewhere handy as a reminder to keep you motivated
- Get help – talk to your friends, family and workmates – support from them is essential – why not quit together and keep each other motivated?
To see a full compendium of information covering the impact of smoking on the Isle of Wight visit the NHS IoW Website and select ‘Smoking’.
Image: meddygarnet under CC BY 2.0
