Call to kick habit

IT'S now even easier for smokers in Great Yarmouth and Waveney to kick the habit once and for all following the launch of a new freephone helpline number.

The 0800 652 3477 number has been introduced by NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney for use by anyone who wants help to give up smoking.

Completely free of charge, it is hoped it will encourage even more people to ask for NHS support as they begin their journey towards becoming smokefree.

Tobacco control commissioning advisor for NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney Vicki Snelgrove said: “We want to make it as easy as we possibly can for people to take those first few steps towards a smokefree life, and hope that this freephone number will encourage even more people to get in touch with us.

“It is just one of a range of measures we've introduced to make sure the service we offer is flexible and as easy as possible for people to access.

“After someone has got in touch, we'll help them to find the solution which suits them, which could be a combination of nicotine replacement therapy or stop smoking medication and one-to-one support from an advisor.

“Our key message to people who smoke is always the same; the service we offer is not a one-chance saloon. If you don't succeed the first time, we will always welcome you back and help you find another method which will perhaps better suit your lifestyle.

“Statistics also show that people are four times more likely to quit for good with the right NHS support - so you really do have nothing to lose by getting in touch.”

The new number has been introduced after community stop smoking advisors smashed through its 2009/10 target by helping more than 2,000 people to stub it out once and for all. Health bosses now want to build on that success by encouraging even more people to take advantage of the service.

Smokers can call 0800 652 3477 or text QUIT to 65000 to find out more. Alternatively, support is available through local pharmacies, GP surgeries, walk in centres or community and health centres.