More than 3,700 people quit smoking in West Sussex as free support reaches communities

More than 3,700 people across West Sussex have successfully quit smoking with the help of a free support service, as health officials encourage more residents to give up cigarettes during Stoptober.

The figure follows the expansion of Smokefree West Sussex in October 2024, made possible through additional government funding.

West Sussex County Council says thousands of residents have benefited from specialist advice and practical support to help them kick the habit.

As part of this year's Stoptober campaign, a mobile stop-smoking unit is travelling around communities across the county, offering free advice to people who want to quit.

The unit is staffed by trained Quit 4 Wellbeing advisors who provide on-the-spot guidance, free Quit Kits while stocks last, and information about ongoing support.

One resident who has benefited from the service is Suzie from Littlehampton, who managed to quit after smoking for 53 years.

Her journey became particularly challenging when she was diagnosed with lung cancer just two weeks after beginning her attempt to stop smoking.

Suzie said: "After 53 years of smoking, I never thought I'd be able to quit. When I was diagnosed with lung cancer just two weeks into my quit attempt, the support from Quit 4 Wellbeing became even more important.

“My advisor helped me through every challenge and tailored support to how I was feeling, especially during treatment and recovery. I'm incredibly proud to be smoke-free and, if I can do it, there is hope for anyone who wants to quit."

Residents across West Sussex can access a range of free services, including face-to-face appointments, telephone consultations and digital support through the Smokefree app.

Local West Sussex Wellbeing teams, run by district and borough councils, also offer advice on stopping smoking alongside support with weight management, physical activity and reducing alcohol consumption.

No referral is needed to access the services.

Councillor Ian Davey, West Sussex County Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said:

"There's never been a better time to quit smoking. As we work towards a smoke-free future, our local services are here to support anyone who wants to stop smoking for good.

"Evidence shows that people who stay smoke-free for 28 days are five times more likely to quit for good, and their chances of success increase even further with support.

"By bringing support closer to residents through our mobile unit and a range of accessible services, we hope more people like Suzie will take that first step towards becoming smoke-free."

The mobile stop-smoking unit will continue visiting towns and communities throughout West Sussex during the year, providing residents with opportunities to receive free advice closer to home.

Residents can find out more about available support by calling 0330 222 7980 or visiting West Sussex Wellbeing.

Details of upcoming mobile unit visits are available at www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk/roadshow.

Free Quit Kits are also available while stocks last.

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