Out with the old habit and in with the New Year’s resolution

The Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland (HPA) will be encouraging smokers to use this New Year as the focus to put their old habits behind them and resolve to quit smoking in 2006. The HPA will be running a television advertising campaign from the end of December which highlights the support available for those who want to quit.

Dr Brian Gaffney, Chief Executive of the HPA, said: “January is a time when many focus on breaking old habits by making New Year’s resolutions and we are encouraging smokers to use this as a focus for quitting. Research shows that one of the most important elements in successfully stopping smoking is planning ahead.

“However, we know that it is not easy for smokers to do this as it is an addiction which is very difficult to break. The advertising emphasises that there is a lot of support out there for those who really are trying to give up.”

The advertising campaign features the Smokers’ Helpline, a free service offering support, information and advice, which can be accessed by calling 0800 85 85 85. The Helpline is staffed by trained counsellors who have already handled thousands of calls since it was set up three years ago. The counsellors will also be able to direct callers to smoking cessation groups in their area if they wish.

The television advertising will run from 27 December 2005 to 7 January 2006.

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Notes to the Editor:
Contact Rosie McGaughey on – Tel: 028 9031 1611 or 028 9031 1514.