Derbyshire smokers are being urged to quit for 28 days and see the difference that it can make.
October 1st marks the launch of this year’s Stoptober challenge, and this year’s theme is ‘Stop Smoking and Good Things Happen’.
Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Communities Councillor Carol Hart said: “Smoking remains one of the biggest causes of preventable illness and premature death in Derbyshire. If you’re thinking of quitting smoking, Stoptober is a great opportunity to sign-up with thousands of other people who are keen to quit.”
Research shows that you’re three times more likely to quit with your local stop smoking service. The council’s Live Life Better Derbyshire lifestyles service offers free, 12 week stop smoking support for anyone aged 12 and over in Derbyshire.
Derbyshire has seen a reduction in estimated adult smoking from 15.1% in 2017 to 14% in 2022. However, Erewash is one of a number of areas in the county to have higher than average smoking rates at 18.9%.
Cllr Hart added: “We’re pleased to see that the number of people smoking in Derbyshire continues to decrease but we still have work to do, and we’ll continue to support people who want to quit."
Live Life Better Derbyshire offers dedicated stop smoking clinics across Derbyshire, a supportive Facebook group and help with nicotine replacement options and stop smoking medications. The team also provides friendly, non-judgemental support to pregnant women who want to stop smoking.
For more information visit www.livelifebetterderbyshire.org.uk/stopsmoking