As Stoptober draws to a close, Thurrock Council is making one final push to encourage residents to take the first step towards a healthier, smoke-free future, reminding them that free support to quit smoking is available all year round.
The annual national campaign encourages people who smoke to make a quit attempt during October, with research showing that those who manage 28 days without smoking are five times more likely to quit for good.
With just a few days of Stoptober remaining, residents who have been thinking about quitting are being encouraged to take that first step, while those who have already started their journey are urged to keep going.
And for anyone who isn’t quite ready to quit this October, the message is simple: you don’t have to wait until next Stoptober to get support.
There are encouraging signs that more people across Thurrock are taking positive steps towards quitting. Earlier this year, Thurrock Council reported a 21% increase in referrals to its Healthy Lifestyle Stop Smoking Service compared with the same period the previous year.
However, smoking remains a significant public health challenge locally, with 14.3% of adults in Thurrock smoking, above the national average.
Free support available throughout the year
While Stoptober provides an opportunity to focus on quitting, Thurrock Council’s Stop Smoking Service is available 12 months a year, offering free, personalised support to help residents quit smoking for good.
Through the council’s Health Trainer Service, residents can access up to 12 weeks of one-to-one support, personalised quit plans and practical advice on managing cravings and changing smoking habits.
Nicotine replacement therapy, vape starter kits and prescribed stop smoking medication may also be available, depending on individual needs, clinical suitability and availability.
Whether someone wants to quit now, next month or in the New Year, support is available whenever they feel ready to make a change.
Every quit attempt counts
Quitting smoking is one of the most positive steps someone can take to improve their health.
The benefits can begin soon after their last cigarette, with improvements to circulation, breathing and energy levels over time. Quitting also reduces the risk of serious illnesses, including heart disease, stroke and cancer, while helping residents save money.
For those who have attempted to quit before, Stoptober is also a reminder that every attempt counts. Many people try more than once before quitting successfully, and professional support can make a real difference.
Residents who have already taken part in this year’s Stoptober campaign are encouraged to continue their progress beyond October, using the council’s free services to help them stay smoke-free.
Make today the start of your smoke-free journey
With Stoptober coming to an end, Thurrock Council is encouraging residents not to put off making a positive change.
Whether it’s your first attempt or you’ve tried before, you don’t have to do it alone. Free, friendly and professional support is available throughout the year to help you take that first step and stay on track.
To find out more and register for free support, visit Stopping smoking | Help to stop smoking | Thurrock Council
Alternatively, contact Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service on 0800 292 2299, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, or email thls@thurrock.gov.uk.
Stoptober may be ending, but your journey to a smoke-free future can start at any time.
