NHS Lanarkshire, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and NHS Lothian, have partnered together to support those who wish to quit smoking, by launching their campaign; ‘Don’t Wait’.

Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable disease and premature death in Scotland, and this joint campaign between Scotland’s three largest health boards focuses on the harms smoking can cause and the free NHS stop smoking services available to help stub out the addiction.

The campaign features NHS respiratory consultant, Dr Colin Church, emphasising that it’s never too late to see the benefits that come from quitting smoking.

Shirley Mitchell, Tobacco Control Programme Manager, NHS Lanarkshire commented: “It’s inspiring to see that people are still looking to quit smoking, during such challenging times.

“We have adapted our services, in line within coronavirus restrictions, to be able to continue to support not only those looking to quit, but also their family members and anyone who has queries in regards to stopping smoking.

“Through partnership working, we will be in a much stronger position to raise awareness of this free NHS service available.”

Geraldine Lucas, Tobacco Control Lead, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Working in partnership with colleagues across the central belt will allow us to raise the profile of our Quit Your Way stop smoking services which have continued to offer information, advice and support, including nicotine replacement therapy or Champix to people who smoke throughout the pandemic”.

“Smoking tobacco damages the lungs and airways causing a range of severe respiratory problems and right now, more than ever, we want to encourage all people who smoke to give quitting a go.”

Robbie Preece, Tobacco Control Programme Manager, NHS Lothian, added: “Working across the three largest boards in Scotland allows us to share resources and we’re aiming to have a larger impact with this campaign.

“We are offering telephone and video support, and relaying the key message that quitting smoking is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health.”

Smoking is linked to many illnesses and long-term conditions, substantially increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, stroke and cancer.

Quit Your Way can be contacted Monday – Friday from 9am until 5pm.

For more information, call 0800 84 84 84 or visit NHS Inform’s Quit Your Way website.

You can now use our ‘Click to be Contacted’ service, select your local or nearest area, leave your name, preferred contact method, and we will in touch with you.

You can also visit your local Community Pharmacy for free stop smoking support.