Bury Lifestyle Service is waiting to hear from smokers who want to give up the habit when the national Stoptober campaign starts this weekend.
The service is free and confidential and has been established for more than ten years. It has a team of health trainers and advisors who offer one-to-one support for people who either live, work or study in Bury or are registered with a Bury GP.
Councillor Andrea Simpson, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Giving up smoking is the single best thing that a person can do to improve their health.
“Those who use stop smoking aids and get face-to-face support from their local stop smoking service are up to four times more likely to quit successfully.
“That’s where Bury Lifestyle Service comes in, with personal support, nicotine replacement therapies, and advice to help with cravings, including online encouragement through emails, social media and an app.”
Victoria (aged 30) from Radcliffe attended one-to-one support with stop smoking advisor Sharon Hall throughout her pregnancy. Victoria had a tough time early on in her pregnancy when her partner unexpectedly passed away. However, with fortnightly support, she managed to remain smoke-free throughout her second and third trimester, and she now has a healthy ten-week-old baby girl.
Victoria said: “After a stressful time in my life regrettably I started smoking again. However, with the help of Sharon my stop smoking advisor, I have managed to remain smoke-free, giving my baby the best start in life.”
As well as providing help to give up smoking, Bury Lifestyle Service provides personalised support in the following areas:
- Eating healthier and managing your weight
- Improving your sleep
- Drinking sensibly
- Self-managing your medical condition
- Improving your overall health and well being
Appointments are available during the day, evenings and weekends in more than 40 venues throughout the borough on a self-referral basis; simply call 0161 253 7554 to make an appointment.
