66 Day Challenge tackles smoking
As part of the 66 Day Challenge, Argyll and Bute Health and Wellbeing Network is hosting Stop Smoking. The event, to be held on Wednesday October 17 at the Lochgilphead Community Centre from 10am to 4pm, aims to make smoking easier with numbers.
In just a few days, giving up smoking can lead to noticeable improvements to breathing and physical activity feeling less strenuous. The aim is to gain huge improvements in 66 days.
Many people can quit on their own but there is much evidence to show that quitting with help is four times more successful and that they are much more likely to stay smoke free. Pharmacies will provide support designed specifically to support anyone trying to stop.
Specialist services are there to help, encourage and offer support every step the way.
The network will tailor a unique programme for smokers, and if they don’t succeed at first they won’t be judged or criticised. Every quit attempt is a step closer to stopping for good.
‘We will help you to review what you have achieved and continue to work with you until you succeed,’ said a spokesperson.
Pharmacists can also use a new service called Flo. Flo is NHS owned and aims to help people achieve their health goals.
Named after the pioneering nurse Florence Nightingale, Flo is a text messaging service that can send and receive texts to help people stay on track and motivated.
Smoking is a real financial commitment. The average smoker spends more than £1,500 a year on cigarettes. Anyone who smokes a pack a day, can run to more than £3,000 a year. That money could net a family holiday, a new kitchen or bathroom, or even a car.
Laura Stephenson of Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care partnership is delighted to be involved in Mid Argyll’s 66 Day Event.
Laura said: ‘Getting support from friends, services and your community can really help people get over an ingrained habit. Make October 17 your day and pop in to get your carbon monoxide reading.’
Visit a pharmacy to get support. Additionally, get telephone or webchat support from trained supervisors from the national Quit Your Way service, open Monday until Friday 8am-10pm and Saturday and Sunday 9am5pm, telephone 0800 848484 or visit www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/quit-yourway-scotland or visit www. smokefreehighland.co.uk