A smoke-free life starts with a smoke-free day and with No Smoking Day just around the corner why not make Wednesday 11th March your quit day!
In the lead-up to No Smoking Day Smokefree Knowsley, Knowsley’s stop smoking service, will be offering free expert advice and support to anyone preparing to stop. We know that with the right help you’re up to three times more likely to quit smoking.
During March you will also find the friendly advisors at the following venues:
- Whiston Hospital Front Entrance, Wednesday 11 March, 10am to 2pm
- Kirkby town centre, Friday 13 March 1.30pm to 4pm
Fred’s story
When 87‑year‑old Fred was referred to Smokefree Knowsley by Whiston Hospital, he knew something had to change. After more than seven decades of smoking, his health was beginning to suffer, and his family were becoming increasingly concerned. It was the turning point he needed.
Fred first picked up a cigarette at just 12 years old, starting with two a day. By adulthood, this had risen to 15. Smoking quickly became part of his identity — something he enjoyed socially and relied on during stressful times. Over the years he tried several times to quit, and although he managed to stay smokefree for long periods, life’s challenges led him back to smoking.
But this time was different.
While in Whiston Hospital, Fred was given clear advice about the severe impact smoking was having on his health. He left with nicotine patches, an inhaler and — most importantly — the motivation to stop for good.
Fred decided to attend one of Smokefree Knowsley’s face‑to‑face clinics. With weekly support and guidance from specialist advisors, he found a new level of determination. The guidance he now gives to anyone thinking about quitting:
“Be determined. Seek help from professional advisors and listen to their advice and recommendations,”
Fred noticed the benefits of giving up almost immediately, his breathing improved and the wheezing he’d lived with for years eased. On top of the health improvements, he has been pleasantly surprised by the money he’s now saving.
He’s very positive about the support he received from Knowsley’s Stop Smoking Service:
“I received weekly support at a face‑to‑face appointment which really helped. I never thought I could do it but with their help I did!”
Fred is now proudly smokefree — proof that it’s never too late to quit, and that the right support can make all the difference.
As No Smoking Day approaches, Fred hopes his story will inspire others to make the same life‑changing decision.
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Health, said:
“Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, with almost immediate benefits, breathing easier and feeling fitter.
“No Smoking Day is the perfect time to quit smoking when thousands of other people are stopping too. Even if you’ve tried before and didn’t manage don’t give up on quitting because you can do it. Like Fred, many smokers try several times before they succeed.
“Smokers are three times more likely to succeed in quitting with help from a trained specialist. Contact Smokefree Knowsley for free expert support and advice to help you on your journey to stop smoking.”
For support, advice and free tools to quit smoking from Knowsley Stop Smoking Service call 0151 426 7462, text quit to 61825 (normal network charge) or visit the website: www.smokefreeknowsley.org.uk