ESSEX County Council is reminding smokers of the support available to help them quit this Stoptober.

Whether it’s your first time trying to quit or you’ve made previous attempts, Stoptober is the perfect opportunity to make a positive change.

Research shows that if you can quit for 28 days, you are five times more likely to quit for good.

The message of this year’s national campaign is “Let’s quit smoking together” – encouraging smokers to explore the support available.

In Essex, Essex Wellbeing Service (EWS) offers personalised support to help you find a quitting method that works for you.

This could include:

one-to-one coaching and behaviour change support to help you to understand and manage your triggers
access to an innovative online course – Allen Carr’s Easyway
free quit smoking aids such as nicotine replacement therapy or nicotine vapes
While giving up smoking can be challenging, you don’t have to do it alone – EWS is here to support you throughout the process.

Quitting smoking brings a wide range of physical and mental health benefits, both immediate and long-term. These include:

improved lung capacity
increased energy
reduced stress
better life expectancy
enhanced taste and smell
Stopping smoking can also leave you with more money in your pocket.

Between April 2024 and March 2025, 4,174 people quit smoking with help from EWS. Of the 5,513 residents supported during this time, more than 75% gave up smoking for good.

Sarah Muckle, Director of Wellbeing, Public Health and Communities at Essex County Council, said: “Stoptober is a fantastic opportunity to take the first step towards quitting smoking and we are here to help.

“With expert support from the Essex Wellbeing Service, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s your first attempt or you’ve tried before, the right help can make all the difference.

“Let’s make this October the month you choose a healthier, smoke-free future.”

To find out more and complete an assessment form, visit https://essexwellbeingservice.co.uk/support/stop-smoking/.

More information on Stoptober and quitting smoking is also available at: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/.