Free support in Richmond can triple your chances of quitting smoking

Receiving free, tailored support can triple the chances of successfully quitting smoking, bringing health benefits within days and potential savings of around £217 a month.

Richmond Council’s free Stop Smoking Service helps residents choose an approach that feels right for them, from one-to-one advice to nicotine replacement therapy and Swap to Stop Smoking - vape starter kits and supplies for up to 12 weeks. During the past year, the Stop Smoking Service has supported more than 171 residents to quit.

Councillor Piers Allen, Lead Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Public Health and Chair of the Health & Wellbeing Board, said:

"Richmond has an opportunity to be one of the first areas in England to make smoking obsolete. Reducing smoking is a priority for the Council because it helps residents live longer, healthier lives and reduces health inequalities across our borough. Our ambition to make Richmond smoke-free by 2030 is a commitment to give people practical, personalised help to make a lasting change. 

"Quitting can feel daunting, but support is available at every stage. Our friendly and experienced team will work with you to find an approach that feels achievable, whether you are ready to stop now or are just beginning to think about it."

The Annual Director of Public Health Report: Breathing Easy shows there has been significant progress reducing smoking. Richmond upon Thames has the third lowest adult smoking rate in England and lowest in London, according to the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities. However, around 6.7% of adults in the borough still smoke. The Council is working with health organisations, housing providers, libraries and support services to help more people quit.

Paul from Ham, who received council support in quitting smoking said: "If you have access to support, try it. The Stop Smoking Advisor was great, kept encouraging me and helped me find what worked. It may not be as difficult as you think, and having someone there makes you feel that you are not doing it alone."

Throughout October, Richmond residents can access extra support as part of Stoptober, the national campaign encouraging people to quit smoking for the month. Residents can speak to Stop Smoking Advisors at Monday drop-ins at the Civic Centre, at community pop-ups and at the Full of Life Fair. Appointments are also available at St George’s Hospital on selected dates.

The benefits from quitting smoking begin quickly. After 48 hours your sense of taste and smell start to improve, breathing and energy can improve within three days, and after a year, your risk of heart disease is around half of that of someone who continues to smoke. It also protects loved ones from second-hand smoke.

If you are thinking about quitting, or know someone who is, this Stoptober, find out how Richmond's free stop smoking support can help.

Get more information and free support:

• Visit the Council website for information on local support sessions and the health pop ups
• Complete the contact form to receive a call
• Call the free 24/7 advice line on 0800 011 4558
• Email stopsmokingteam@richmond.gov.uk
• Download the Smoke Free App on your smartphone for additional support
• Register for the Full of Life Fair
• Use the NHS Quit Smoking Calculator to find out how much you could save when you quit