Published on 15 November 2019
More than 150 people sought help to stop smoking as part of East Kent Hospitals’ Stoptober campaign.
The figures mean more than 1,000 people will have been referred to smoking cessation services by the end of the year.
Smoking is linked to almost half a million hospital admissions each year and giving up is the single best thing someone can do to improve their health.
Consultant Jonathan Purday, who chairs the Trust’s smoke-free steering group, said: “It’s fantastic to see that our staff have been able to help so many people who want to stop smoking.
“Stoptober – the annual campaign to encourage people to stop smoking for the whole of October - is a fantastic opportunity, and we know that if someone can avoid smoking for 28 days they are five times more likely to quit for good.
“There is a huge amount of support available, from daily emails to face-to-face support, and I hope people will take advantage of that even now Stoptober is over.”
The Trust also used Stoptopber to renew its commitment to being smoke-free, reminding patients, visitors and staff that smoking is not allowed in any hospital buildings, doorways, grounds or car parks.
For information on support to stop smoking, see www.oneyoukent.org.uk or call 0300 123 1220.
