THIS Stoptober, Essex County Council (ECC) is reminding smokers across the county of the support available to help them quit.

More than 13% of the Essex population still smoke – higher than the national average of 12.1%. However, the good news is that of the 2,351 people who set a date to quit smoking in 2020/21, 74% (1,728) successfully quit.

For anyone looking to quit- Stoptober is a great time to take the first steps to making this a reality.

There are both physical and mental benefits of quitting smoking in the short, long and medium terms. These include increased life expectancy, improved lung capacity, more energy and reduced tiredness, lower stress, anxiety and depression, increased fertility, and improved smell and taste.

While some people can quit on their own, for others it can be more challenging but there is support available to be smoke free.

The Essex Wellbeing Service has a number of quit methods available for smokers including Allen Carr’s EasyWay Method, free e-cigarette kits, and The Sound Dr’s learning package as well as Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).

Cllr John Spence, ECC’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “There are lots of reasons people smoke- we aren’t here to judge, we are here to support.

“Quitting smoking is hard, but the support we offer can make it easier. Anyone considering quitting, Stoptober is a great time to give it a go, we will be there every step of the way. Please get in touch so we can help you start your smoke free journey.”

Brooke from North East Essex recently became a non-smoker using the Allen Carr’s EasyWay method:

“After 27 years of smoking and numerous failed attempts to stop, I know I will never go near nicotine again and that is extremely liberating! You will not believe how simple it can be, I honestly mean that.”

The Essex Wellbeing Service works with residents to choose the right treatment and support in various locations across the county, including GP surgeries, pharmacies and specialist clinics, as well as offering over the phone support.

Free support to stop smoking is available from the Essex Wellbeing Service to everyone living and working in Essex (excluding Southend and Thurrock). This can be accessed here: www.essexwellbeingservice.co.uk/services/stop-smoking

Residents can also download the free NHS Quit Smoking app to help them track their progress, see how much they are saving and get daily support. https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/