LIVEWIRE’S SmokeFree Warrington team is keen to help more people than ever stop smoking this Stoptober.

Running throughout October, the annual campaign to encourage smokers to quit the habit is back and the team is on hand to help, despite the challenges that coronavirus brings.

This year’s drive is founded on the evidence that if a smoker can quit for 28 days, they are five times more likely to quit for good.

And it will run in partnership with the new NHS ‘Better Health’ campaign, which launched as a response to the coronavirus pandemic and is aimed at helping people kickstart improving their health by getting active, losing weight and giving up smoking.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, and to support the reduction in the spread of the virus in Warrington, LiveWire Lifestyles advisors will not be offering advice in supermarkets or in the town centre like usual.

But that does not mean that less help and products are available.

Ruth Armstrong, LiveWire lifestyles officer and lead for SmokeFree, said: “The coronavirus outbreak has changed how people can engage and make contact with us, and we are using this year’s campaign to remind people that we are still here over the phone or on our Facebook page.

“If anyone wants to quit smoking for the first time, or if they have stopped before but have relapsed, I would encourage them to get in touch with us in the best interests of their physical, emotional and financial health.

Warrington Guardian:

“Our team has a fantastic record in helping people quit, so we really want to make this another successful Stoptober.

“Many people are using coronavirus as a motivator to quit smoking and improve their overall health, ensuring they are in the best possible position to fight any illnesses that come their way.

“We hope that this year’s Better Health Stoptober campaign will give people the added confidence to reach out to us and allow us to support them through their journey.”

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, added: “We all know that quitting smoking is not easy, but with willpower, determination and the right level of support, making this significant change could be one of the best things you will ever do for your health.

“Now more than ever, we all need to take responsibility for our own health and do all we can to live healthier lives.

“If you have been considering giving up smoking, Stoptober is a great challenge and LiveWire is on hand to offer advice and guidance to help you reach your goal of being smoke free.”

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For more information on SmokeFree Warrington and the support and services available, visit livewirewarrington.co.uk/lifestyle/stop-smoking or call 0300 003 0818.

To find out more about Stoptober and the NHS’ Better Health campaign, visit nhs.uk/stoptober