Oxford,
22
September
2017
|
14:48
Europe/London

Abingdon smokers urged to join ‘Stoptober’ and save up to £250

Oxfordshire County Council’s public health team is challenging smokers in the Abingdon area to save up to £250 this ‘Stoptober’ by quitting.

Research shows that when smokers give up for 28 days they are up to five times more likely to stay smoke-free for good. Successful attempts are also four times more likely with the help of a stop smoking service. Not only are the immediate health benefits huge, but quitting can also put some serious cash back in your wallet – up to £250 a month.

A special Stoptober-themed clinic is coming to Abingdon market on Wednesday 27 September, to highlight the benefits of going smoke free. The event from 10am to 3pm is being staged by Smokefreelife Oxfordshire  - the county’s stop smoking service commissioned by Oxfordshire County Council.

Anyone thinking about taking the Stoptober challenge should drop by for a chat with a friendly and supportive advisor who can give guidance on quitting aids and make referrals for ongoing support from a stop smoking advisor. The family-friendly event will also feature face-painting for children.

Those preferring to quit on their own can visit the Stoptober website for help and advice – including social media support.

Health impact

Cabinet Member for Public Health, Cllr Hilary Hibbert-Biles, said: “Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the UK and contributes to around 100,000 deaths each year. While smoking rates have fallen steadily in Oxfordshire and are below the national average, one in eight people are still lighting up in the county – which amounts to a lot of smokers.

“We’re supporting Stoptober because it’s vital we encourage Oxfordshire residents to make healthy choices. Quite simply, stopping smoking is the single biggest thing you can do to improve your life expectancy.”

Leena Sankla, Director of Public Health & Lifestyle Services, Solutions 4 Health Ltd who provide Smokefreelife Oxfordshire, encourages people to stop by and get involved: “We are passionate about giving smokers the best possible chance to quit and hope that lots of people come and find out what we can offer by talking to the staff at our event. There will be lots going on and I’d encourage everyone, smoker or not, to come and enjoy the entertainment and learn about the support available through Smokefreelife Oxfordshire.”

Further Stoptober events

Smokefreelife Oxfordshire  will also be at Templars Square Shopping Centre, Cowley on 6 October and outside Castle Quay Shopping Centre, Banbury on 9 October. All events run between 10am – 3pm.