Residents who smoke can take part in the challenge this October and get local support to quit smoking, which can vastly improve their health.
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, has made it a key priority for residents to get the support they need more easily to have healthier and more independent lives.
Going ‘cold turkey’ is common but attempts are more successful with support. Live Well Croydon has helped hundreds of residents on their journey to give up smoking. Expert Live Well Croydon advisers offer personalised support, including nicotine replacement therapies, practical advice, and encouragement every step of the way – which can boost the chances of giving up for good.
The SmokeFree app offers residents unlimited support with specialist advisers and up to 12 weeks supply of vapes or nicotine replacement products.
Eugene, a recent Live Well Croydon client, shares his story. He said: “I stopped smoking for over 20 years, but then I hit a tough time in my life and fell back into it, bit by bit. Before I knew it, I was a smoker again. My wife hated it, my kids hated it, but I couldn’t find a way to stop.
“After nearly two years trying to stop on my own, I connected with Live Well Croydon. With their programme of free nicotine patches and sprays and the great advice and practical support by phone of my mentor, Sarah, I am now happy to be a confirmed non-smoker again. I’m very grateful to Croydon Council and I would wholeheartedly recommend their stop smoking programme to anyone who is finding it difficult to stop. My health is better, my bank balance is better, and my family are happy. Win-win-win!”
The Council also has a specialist stop smoking service, SmokeFree Croydon, for people in the borough who use mental health support services, those going through drugs and alcohol treatment, and anyone affected by homelessness.
Stoptober is helping millions across the country to give up smoking for good. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. Evidence shows that after the short-term withdrawal stage, anxiety, depression, and stress are reduced, and positive mood increases compared to those who continue to smoke.
“This October, we are encouraging everyone who smokes to take the first step towards a healthier, smoke-free future. Stoptober is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to your health and wellbeing. With the right support, quitting is possible and the benefits start almost immediately. We urge everyone who smokes to take advantage of the free help available from Live Well Croydon and join the challenge.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
For more information and support, visit: Live Well Croydon
