Are you ready to quit smoking? Today marks the launch of ‘Stoptober’ an annual campaign encouraging smokers to quit, and the perfect time to make a change!
Research shows that people who make it to 28 days smoke free are five times more likely to quit smoking for good! So, if you decide to take part, your goal is to reach 28 days smoke free and there is plenty of support available to help you do it!
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Health, said: “Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your health, and Stoptober is the perfect time to make that change, with plenty of support available both locally and nationally.
“With the Tobacco and Vapes Bill coming into force and our recently introduced smoke-free space, we are moving closer to a smokefree Knowsley so let’s quite smoking together, for good!”
How do I get started?
Many people attempt to stop smoking without help, but there’s no reason to go it alone, and having expert support can make the difference between stopping temporarily and stopping for good.
In Knowsley you can find out more about services available, or access support from Knowsley Stop Smoking Service, by calling 0151 426 7462, texting quit to 61825 (normal network charge) or visiting the website: www.smokefreeknowsley.org.uk
Smokefree Knowsley is also running a competition for those quitting during Stoptober. More information is available here: https://www.smokefreeknowsley.org.uk/pages/quit-with-us-and-be-in-with-a-chance-to-win
The NHS also has a range of support available on its website, including handy toolkits to help track your progress. Visit https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking
All Together Smokefree
NHS and Public Health Leaders from across Cheshire and Merseyside are meeting today to support Stoptober, and to launch their bold ambition to end smoking, everywhere for everyone by 2030.
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable ill health, premature death, and health inequalities in Cheshire and Merseyside.
In Knowsley, the Council has introduced new smoke and vape-free zones in designated public areas across the borough in a bid to protect the health of children and young people.
The scheme aims to reduce smoking and vaping among children and young people, encourage more people to quit smoking, and reduce children’s exposure to second-hand smoke and vapour in public spaces.
Spaces covered by the new smoke and vape-free zones will include playgrounds and play areas, schools, libraries and other Council-owned buildings. You can read more on the PSPO here.
The PSPO in Knowsley comes ahead of a new law that will make it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.
The Tobacco & Vapes Act will be brought in on 1 January 2027, with the health and wellbeing of future generations at its core. It also introduces tougher controls on vape advertising and access for young people and, subject to consultation, will allow smoke-free rules to be extended to places such as playgrounds, schools and hospitals.