A new smoking campaign called Yes to Quit has launched in Hull, asking people ‘what will you miss?’. Smokers are asked to consider what they would miss if they died of a smoking related illness – weddings, births and quality time with loved ones – compared to missing cigarettes after quitting.
Students at Malet Lambert Secondary School got involved in the launch, spelling out the stark stats facing smokers. Filmed from above by drones, the 480 pupils involved represent the number of lives that could be saved in Hull every year if people are supported to stop smoking, and young people prevented from starting.
Yes to Quit will run until May 20, throughout the wider Humber region, including North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. It is coordinated by the Humber and North Yorkshire Centre for Excellence in Tobacco Control and, in Hull, will be run in partnership with Hull City Council, and the city’s smoking support service Smokefree Hull.
Julia Weldon, Director of Public Health and Deputy Chief Executive at Hull City Council said: “This campaign is a very stark reminder of the impact that smoking has on long-term smokers – claiming 480 lives each year in Hull.
“We hope that by uniting across the region to help people quit, we can protect future generations from ever starting. The Third Reading of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is positive step towards a smokefree future, protecting people from tobacco harm and making it easier for smokers to quit for good. With the right support, people can successfully quit and live healthier, longer lives.”
Tracy Mikkelson-Edwards, Manager of Smokefree Hull said: “We sadly see the impact of smoking every day, but it’s amazing to be able to help people quit smoking and see the positive improvements in all areas of their lives. Most people have tried many times and want to stop but have been trapped in the addiction since adolescence.
“Our advisors are completely non-judgemental and work with each person individually to help them find a way that works for them – and there is always a way. If you’ve tried before, don’t stop trying, we would love to help, and your next attempt could be the one that works.”
Patrick Sprakes, Headteacher of Malet Lambert School said: “This has been a brilliant project to get involved in, and one we are passionate about, as we want our pupils to live long, healthy lives.
“Unfortunately, many of our pupils know someone, often a family member, who has been harmed by tobacco; and it has been really useful to discuss with them the impact smoking can have. We want starting to smoke in the future to not even be a consideration for our pupils.”
Throughout the campaign, people will be sharing their experiences of quitting and what worked for them. Lenny Bottomly, who quit smoking with the help of SmokeFree Hull said: “Jo at Smokefree Hull was great at giving me counselling advice and ideas on other things I do to replace my habits around smoking. I struggled for the first few weeks, but it got easier and easier.
“Now I feel great, really. I’m telling anyone and everyone who smokes to get in touch with them as its one of the best things I ever did!”
For free support to stop smoking, contact SmokeFree Hull on 01482 977617 or visit: www.changegrowlive.org/smoke-free-hull/home. You can also try the new, free app; search ‘smokefree’ in your app provider for daily support, stats and updates throughout your quit journey.
