Council backs national No Smoking Day quit effort

Blackburn with Darwen Council is backing national No Smoking Day, taking place today (Wednesday, March 10.)

The campaign aims to inspire hundreds of thousands of smokers to win their fight against cigarettes.

This year the focus is on the mental health benefits of quitting.

Research shows that smokers who quit might experience short term stress but those who quit for 6 weeks or more show signs of improved mental as well as physical health.

If you’re thinking about stopping, or reducing smoking, in BwD you access personalised support, motivation and encouragement from Wellbeing Service Health Trainers.

Call (01254) 682037, wellbeing@blackburn.gov.uk, or self-refer via this website.

Smoking prevalence in Blackburn with Darwen has continued to reduce since 2011, falling from 27.1% to 15.5%, and the borough’s 4-week quit rate is similar to the North West and England values.

Councillor Brian Taylor, Assistant executive member for health and adult social care and local smoking cessation champion, said:

If you’re a smoker who wants to stub it out for good, why not seize No Smoking Day as your big chance to stop?

Withdrawal can be stressful but ultimately ex-smokers are happier and healthier. It’s also even more important this year with coronavirus rates still high. Smoking is harmful for our immune system and our ability to fight off infections.

The good news is there is help and support available locally that will give people a good chance of breaking away from their addictions and feel benefits of becoming smokefree.