As a Tobacco Control Officer for QuitReady, Leicestershire's free stop smoking service, we speak to people every day who want to quit smoking but are unsure where to begin.
Some tell me they've been thinking about stopping for years. Others have tried before and worry that they won't succeed. Our message is always the same: it is never too late to quit, and you don't have to do it alone.
That's why we welcome the return of Stoptober each year. The national 28-day quit smoking challenge provides a fantastic opportunity for people to take that first step towards a smoke-free future.
Research shows that if you can stay smoke-free for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to quit for good. While the challenge focuses on just four weeks, the impact can last a lifetime.
Over 14,000 people have successfully quit smoking with the support of QuitReady since 2017. Behind every one of those success stories is a person who made the decision to try, often after several previous quit attempts.
One of the biggest misconceptions about stopping smoking is that a previous quit attempts that didn’t last means you have failed. In reality, many people make several quit attempts before they stop for good. Every attempt helps you understand your triggers, build confidence and learn what support works best for you.
As smoking remains the leading cause of preventable illness and premature death, stopping smoking is one of the most positive things you can do for your health. However, the benefits extend far beyond your own wellbeing.
Many of the people we support tell us that quitting has helped them become more active, save money and spend more quality time with their families. Stopping smoking also reduces exposure to second-hand smoke, helping to protect the health of those around you.
The good news is that support is available, and it works.
At QuitReady, we offer free, personalised support through a 12-week programme, with a dedicated stop smoking advisor, behavioural support and access to stop smoking treatments to help manage cravings and withdrawal. We can also help people understand the range of options available, including nicotine replacement therapy and for adults who smoke vaping as an aid to quitting smoking.
Alongside local support, there are a number of excellent national resources available, including the NHS Quit Smoking app and Personal Quit Plans.
If you have been considering quitting smoking, I would encourage you to make this Stoptober the moment you start. You do not need to focus on giving up forever. Focus on today, then tomorrow, and then the next day. Those small steps soon add up.
Whatever your smoking history, and whether this is your first quit attempt or your tenth, support is available to help you succeed.
This Stoptober, take the first step towards a healthier, smoke-free future.
For free support from QuitReady, call 0345 646 6666, text READY to 66777, or visit the QuitReady website to find out more.