Sandwell's top health councillor backs 'stop smoking' campaign

Councillor Paul Moore, cabinet member for health and commissioning, is urging smokers to join Stoptober, the first ever mass quit campaign by the Department of Health.

People who take part will receive a detailed step-by-step programme to stop smoking.

The move comes as figures based on national surveys and research indicate the borough's smoking balance sheet is millions of pounds in the red.

They suggest some 51,710 smokers in Sandwell spend £91.4m a year on tobacco products, contributing £69.7m to Government coffers, but cost £85.1m, leaving a shortfall of £15.4m.

This includes the costs of early deaths, smoking breaks, time off work, sickness, passive smoking, house fires and litter clean-ups.

Cllr Moore said: "People are free to make up their own mind about smoking, this campaign is simply a way of helping anyone who wants to try to give up.

"People who can stop smoking for 28 days are five times more likely to stay smokefree.

"Please take a minute to check out the campaign website at www.smokefree.nhs.uk/Stoptober."

Sandwell Council will assume responsibility for stop smoking services next year.

The campaign includes a preparation pack, 28-day Quit Calendar and Health & Wealth wheel.

Smokers will also receive support and encouragement through a daily messaging service and expert advice via:

Stoptober app (available via Smartphone)

Motivational text messages

 Facebook page

 For a full list of Stop Smoking Services in Sandwell:

• Call 0800 011 4656
• Text READY to 80800