Helpline highlights commitment to helping smokers quit

Around 10, 000 calls have been made to Northern Ireland’s smokers’ helpline since it was established last year, showing that many people here really do want to stop smoking, according to the Health Promotion Agency (HPA).

This figure was highlighted during the launch of the HPA’s 13th Annual report today (Monday 27 Setember). The helpline, which was set up in January 2003, has been contacted by thousands of smokers seeking support, as well as information and advice on how they can stop smoking.

Speaking during the launch, Dr Brian Gaffney, Chief Executive of the HPA, said: “Tobacco control remains one of our key priorities. We know that smokers need a lot of help and support if they want to stay quit. The helpline is staffed by trained counsellors who can direct callers to stop smoking groups in their area, and provide advice and support over the phone. The helpline is free and can be contacted by calling
0800 85 85 85.

“The HPA continues to work hard with a range of organisations and groups to highlight the health risks of smoking. We also continue the challenge of advocating the development of smoke-free environments, as figures released by the HPA earlier this year demonstrate support from people in Northern Ireland for smoke-free public places, especially smoke-free workplaces. We will be further highlighting the dangers of smoking with a new public information campaign later this year focusing on the issue of passive smoking.”

The HPA Annual report provides an overview of work undertaken during 2003 – 2004 and marks the completion of another challenging year for the organisation. The report highlights the HPA’s commitment to cross-sectoral partnerships and reflects the development of the settings approach in schools, workplaces and hospitals. The publication also highlights ongoing work in the areas of drugs and alcohol, nutrition, breastfeeding, physical activity, sexual health, mental health and health protection.

Dr Gaffney concluded: “This year’s work has been completed with the prospect of significant change in public health and health promotion. Major reviews of the public health function and the structure of public administration are likely to reinforce the public health agenda and will provide new challenges and opportunities for all of us who are working to promote the health of the public in Northern Ireland.”

The Annual report can be downloaded as a PDF by visiting the HPA’s website: www.healthpromotionagency.org.uk. Printed copies of the report can be obtained from the HPA.

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