As October rolls around, we are excited to introduce STOPTOBER, a nationwide NHS campaign aimed at helping individuals quit smoking. This is the next initiative as part of our ongoing Wellbeing Strategy Group 2024 plan.

If you are a smoker, smoking cessation is one of the most significant steps you can take to improve your health, and STOPTOBER is designed to provide the support and resources you need to make this positive change. 

What is STOPTOBER?

STOPTOBER is a month-long NHS campaign that encourages smokers to quit for 28 days. Research shows that if you can stop smoking for 28 days, you are five times more likely to quit for good. The campaign offers practical support, expert advice, and a sense of community to help you stay on track.

The Benefits of Quitting Smoking

Quitting smoking has numerous health benefits, many of which you’ll start to notice almost immediately. Within 20 minutes of your last cigarette, your heart rate and blood pressure begin to drop. After 12 hours, the carbon monoxide level in your blood returns to normal. Over the next few weeks and months, your lung function improves, and your risk of heart disease and stroke decreases. Long-term benefits include a lower risk of cancer, respiratory diseases, and improved overall health and wellbeing.

During the month, we will be sharing further resources, along with some personal stories from some of our colleagues, about their paths to quitting, and beyond. Watch this space for those. 

Support and Resources

STOPTOBER provides a variety of resources to help you on your journey to becoming smoke-free. Here are some key tools and support networks available from the STOPTOBER Website: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

• STOPTOBER App: The official STOPTOBER app offers daily tips, motivation, and support to keep you on track throughout the campaign. The app allows you to track your progress, see how much you’re saving and get daily support. It’s available for free on both Android and iOS platforms. Watch this short video to find out more: CLICK HERE
• Personal Quit Plan: The NHS offers a personalized quit plan tailored to your smoking habits and preferences. You can access this tool on their website: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/personal-quit-plan/
• Quit Smoking Communities: Join the STOPTOBER Facebook group or other online forums where you can share your journey, seek advice, and gain support from others who are also quitting smoking: https://www.facebook.com/groups/707621863012993/?source_id=162994267161135
• National Helpline: The NHS Smokefree helpline offers free advice and support from trained advisors. Call 0300 123 1044 to speak to someone who can help you create a quit plan and stay motivated.

At the end of this document and on our UK News website HERE (or scan the QR code above) you can find some STOPTOBER resources for printing and sharing on our workplace notice boards and wellbeing notice boards. Click the links below to access and download.

• Quit Smoking App
• Tips to quit smoking
• Stoptober_posters_3
• Stoptober_posters_4
• Stoptober_posters_2
• Stoptober_posters_1
• Stop Smoking ZCard
• Benefits of quitting smoking

Getting Started

Taking the first step towards quitting smoking can be daunting, but with the right support and determination, you can achieve your goal. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. List your reasons to quit.
2. Tell people you’re quitting.
3. If you have tried to quit before, remember what worked.
4. Use stop smoking aids.
5. Have a plan if you are tempted to smoke.
6. List your smoking triggers and how to avoid them.
7. Keep cravings at bay by keeping busy.
8. Exerciseaway the urge.
9. Join the Facebook groupfor support and advice.

STOPTOBER is an excellent opportunity to take control of your health and quit smoking for good. With the right support, resources, and determination, you can achieve a smoke-free life.

Let’s make this October the month we all breathe easier together!