The NHS Highland ‘smoke-free service’ is launching new clinics across the Highlands and Argyll and Bute, including one in Campbeltown, to help people stop smoking.
The new and re-launching clinics, following the Covid pandemic, coincide with the UK health campaign ‘Stoptober’.
As well as in Campbeltown, these clinics will be in Aviemore, Brora, Culloden, Fort William, Inverness, Lochgilphead, Lybster, Mallaig, Nairn, Thurso and Wick, and will continue beyond October. Further clinics will open soon, including on the Isle of Bute and in Cowal.
People who wish to give up smoking or vaping can receive 12 weeks’ support and medication with specialist trained stop smoking advisers.
Smoking rates in Scotland have been falling steadily since 2003, and tens of thousands of people are supported to quit each year.
Last year, across NHS Highland, which includes Argyll and Bute, 413 people had successfully quit smoking at 12 weeks. NHS Highland has recorded 6,417 successful quits at 12 weeks over the last 10 years.
Depending on location and preference, support is offered through in-person clinics, phone calls or video calls using the NHS NearMe facility.
“Smoking is the leading cause of preventable early death in Scotland,” said Susan Birse, health improvement principal at NHS Highland. “We are pleased to offer additional in-person clinics to give people more choice for support.
“Particularly now, when many are feeling the squeeze on household budgets, quitting can help save money as well as bring many health benefits.”
She added: “Stoptober provides a good opportunity for people who are thinking of giving up to take the plunge and quit for good, with our support – you’re three times more likely to be successful than quitting alone.”
A recent client of the ‘smoke-free service’, who stopped smoking 15 weeks ago, said: “Many thanks for your help and support over the last 12 weeks. It really means a lot to me to be able to say I’m still smoke-free. I’m happy to share this if it will help others to take the same journey to better health – and wealth – that I now have.”
People keen to learn more or self-refer to the NHS Highland ‘smoke-free service’ can call 01463 704619, visit www.smokefreehighland.scot.nhs.uk or ask to be referred by their GP or another health professional.