Stoptober, the annual national campaign to help smokers quit has launched in Thurrock today (1 October). Residents are being encouraged to take the first step towards a healthier, smoke-free future, with a wide range of free local support and incentives available.
Thurrock Health Trainer Service is on hand throughout October to help residents successfully quit smoking, with a tried and tested approach that includes:
- Free information sessions and one-to-one support from a specialist advisor
- Tailored quit plans designed for each individual
- Access to free vape starter kits through the Swap to Stop Scheme
- Six months’ free premium access to the Smoke Free app, including 12 weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or vapes delivered to your door
- The chance to qualify for two months’ free gym membership in partnership with Impulse Leisure — worth £150
Free drop-in sessions are taking place across the borough, including Grays, Purfleet, South Ockendon and Tilbury, making it easy for anyone who lives or works in Thurrock to get advice, guidance, and tailored support to quit smoking.
Thurrock residents can also benefit from the Smoke Free app, which provides personalised quit plans, 24/7 support, progress tracking and motivational tools to help users stay on track. Places are limited, so early sign-up is recommended.
Cllr Mark Hooper, Cabinet Member for Health and Well-being, said: “Quitting smoking is one of the best choices you can make for your health, and for the people you care about. Stoptober is the perfect time to give it a go.
“You don’t have to do it alone. Your Thurrock’s Health Trainer Service is here with free advice, guidance, and support to help you every step of the way.”
“It doesn’t matter if you’ve tried before, every attempt brings you closer to success. With the right support, quitting can feel easier, and the rewards come quickly – more money in your pocket, better health, and improved wellbeing.”
“We’re encouraging all smokers in Thurrock to take part in Stoptober. You can get up to 12-weeks of free help from trained professionals. So, if you smoke, why not try now? Stoptober could be your fresh start.”
Start your journey today
Contact Thurrock Health Trainer Service via 0800 292 2299 or email thls@thurrock.gov.uk to receive free support and advice to quit smoking. You can also visit one of the local drop-in sessions to speak to a trained advisor face-to-face.
Full details of how to take part, including information about our drop-in sessions, are available on our Help to Stop Smoking page.
