Press release
Quitters celebrate being smoke free
Many ex-smokers who have successfully kicked the habit during 2008 have shared their experiences for the benefit of others who want to quit.
Community Services Bury hosted the ‘Smoke Free Me’ event which gave smokers who have quit with support from Bury’s Stop Smoking Service, the chance to celebrate their success, offer feedback on stop smoking services in Bury and share their experiences for the benefit of others wanting to stub it out for good.
During 2007/08, more than 1,300 people quit smoking with the help of Bury’s Stop Smoking Service, this year (2008/09) hundreds of local people have already kicked the habit with support from the NHS.
The service offers stop smoking products on prescription, drop-ins, group’s or one to one sessions with Specialist Stop Smoking Advisors who are there to support people at every step of their smokefree journey. Sessions are offered on a flexible basis to fit in with today’s busy lifestyles.
Kate Shepherd, Service Manager for Bury’s Stop Smoking Service, part of Community Services Bury said; “Feedback from our clients is so important; asking people what they think helps us to reflect on the way we work and ensure that the support we offer is at the right level and offered at the right time.”
Patricia’s Hakin, aged 54 who lives in Bury quit smoking with help from Bury’s Stop Smoking Service, Patricia said; “I contacted the service in April 2008. I had smoked since being 15 years old and tried to stop before using patches, but found it difficult. It was whilst I was shopping on Bury Market I noticed the ‘Quit It’ bus and people crowded around to get information about stopping smoking. Shortly after I was contacted by The Bury Stop Smoking Service and arranged my first meeting with a Specialist Advisor. I felt anxious about how it would go, but there was no need to, my Advisor was very friendly and helpful and listened to all my concerns before advising me of the best product to suit my needs, and looking at strategies to change my habits.”
“I have now been a non smoker for 8 months! It’s amazing not only has my health improved but, I’ve also managed to save the money that I used to spend each week for those special treats! My family have been very supportive and I’m really enjoying being smoke free. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about stopping to pick up the phone, it could change your life!”
Kate added; “There’s no doubt about it, stopping smoking can be hard, but with our help and the choice of one of the stop smoking products, smokers are four times more likely to stop and stay stopped. The service offers ongoing support for those people who may not have managed to quit, and our message is never give up giving up.”
For more information about getting help to stop smoking with the NHS in Bury call Bury Stop Smoking Service on 0845 223 9001.
ENDS
Date: 21st January 2009
For further information please contact Caroline Dearden, Corporate Communications Manager, NHS Bury on 0161 762 3106 or email caroline.dearden@bury.nhs.uk