More than 3,700 residents have successfully quit smoking with help from Smokefree West Sussex since the service expanded in October 2024, supported by government funding.
As part of this year’s Stoptober campaign, smokers across West Sussex are being encouraged to take advantage of free, expert support available locally, including a mobile stop-smoking unit visiting communities throughout the county.
The mobile unit is one of a range of services offered by Smokefree West Sussex. Staffed by trained ‘Quit 4 Wellbeing’ stop-smoking advisors, it offers on-the-spot advice, free Quit Kits* and information about further support available to help people stop smoking.
Suzie from Littlehampton is one of the thousands of residents who have successfully quit smoking with support from Smokefree West Sussex. She 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."
Available support includes:
Quit 4 Wellbeing - a specialist countywide stop-smoking service offering face-to-face and telephone support.
The Smokefree app - a digital stop-smoking service available to West Sussex residents.
Local West Sussex Wellbeing teams, run by district and borough councils, offer support to improve health and wellbeing, including help to stop smoking, manage weight, become more active, and reduce alcohol consumption.
Residents can access support free of charge and do not need a referral.
Councillor Ian Davey, West Sussex County Council 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."
For more information about Smokefree West Sussex visit the website or call 0330 222 7980.
https://www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk/topics/smoking/services-for-west-sussex
The mobile stop-smoking unit will continue to visit communities across West Sussex throughout the year, helping residents access expert advice and support closer to home. Upcoming dates and locations are regularly updated online.
www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk/roadshow
*Smokefree West Sussex is offering free Quit Kits while stocks last. Find out more: https://www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk/topics/smoking/free-quit-kit
