Stoptober supports Lambeth’s smokers to split up with cigarettes

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Public Health England data shows that over 12% of adults in Lambeth still smoke.

Research has shown that those who stop smoking for 28 days are five times more likely to quit for good. No matter how long you’ve smoked for, quitting can improve your health straight away. Changes begin within 48 hours and after 1 year, your risk of a heart attack will have halved compared to a smoker’s.

To help, the nation’s biggest “break up with cigarettes” campaign Stoptober is back for its eighth year, starting on 1 October. With most smokers admitting they want to stop, the campaign talks about smoking like a bad relationship you need to break up with.

Dr Adrian McLachlan, a local GP and chair of NHS Lambeth CCG, said: “The smoking figures in Lambeth are promising, when compared to other areas nationally, but there is still a way to go. This Stoptober, it is our aim to make sure everyone in Lambeth is aware of support available to help them stop smoking. It may seem like a huge challenge, but the support is more personalised than ever and you don’t have to do it alone.”

Lambeth smokers can access the city-wide Stop Smoking London Portal or call their helpline 0300 123 0144 for free and confidential support and advice.

For more information on the help and support available in Lambeth see the Council’s web pages.

Participating local pharmacies offer free face-to-face support during the first six weeks of your journey to become smoke-free along with up to 12 weeks of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) or Champix medication.

Smokers from the at risk groups listed below can access free specialist behavioural support as well as NRT or Champix medication

  • Diagnosed with one or more long term conditions, including mental health illnesses
  • Pregnant women and their partners
  • A parent with children aged 5 or under
  • Smokers considered to be complicated cases, such as chronic smokers.
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