The joint campaign between Scotland’s three largest health boards, educates on the harms of smoking, and the free NHS stop smoking services available to help. Featuring NHS respiratory consultant, Dr. Colin Church, the campaign emphasizes that it’s never too late to experience benefits from quitting.
Tobacco Control Programme Manager, NHS Lanarkshire Shirley Mitchell, said that their stop smoking services have been adapted in line with coronavirus restrictions. “It’s inspiring to see that people are still looking to quit smoking, during such challenging times. We have adapted our services, in line with coronavirus restrictions, to be able to continue to support not only those looking to quit but also their family members and anyone who has queries in regards to stopping smoking. Through partnership working, we will be in a much stronger position to raise awareness of this free NHS service available.”
Geraldine Lucas, Tobacco Control Lead, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said that joining forces helps the campaign reach more people. “Working in partnership with colleagues across the central belt will allow us to raise the profile of our Quit Your Way stop smoking services which have continued to offer information, advice, and support, including nicotine replacement therapy or Champix to people who smoke throughout the pandemic. Smoking tobacco damages the lungs and airways causing a range of severe respiratory problems and right now, more than ever, we want to encourage all people who smoke to give quitting a go.”
The partnership provides added resources
While Robbie Preece, Tobacco Control Programme Manager, NHS Lothian, said that the partnership provides an opportunity for added resources. “Working across the three largest boards in Scotland allows us to share resources and we’re aiming to have a larger impact with this campaign. We are offering telephone and video support, and relaying the key message that quitting smoking is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health.”
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