Worcestershire smokers with kids encouraged to use free expert support

On No Smoking Day, Wednesday, March 13, any smokers, living with a child under the age three, whether they are mums, dads or carers, can use the services of Smoke Free Homes in a bid to quit smoking.

The initiative helps to fight the effects of second-hand smoke, which yearly, contributes to over 17,000 children being admitted to hospital.

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The backing comes in various forms, including free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), one-to-one support with an advisor and joint family counselling sessions.

Moreover, the Government's Swap to Stop scheme offering rechargeable vapes to adults aged 18 and over is also in operation as an alternative to traditional nicotine replacement methods.

Smoke Free Homes is a product of the Starting Well Partnership, which "provides support to parents, families, children and young people to live happy, healthy, and fulfilled lives across Worcestershire".

The partnership works with a range of community groups like schools and GP surgeries.

Its aim is to help parents, children, and young people across Worcestershire to live healthier, happier lives by supporting them in identifying and addressing health needs.

Speaking on the matter, Deb Lindsay, clinical operations manager for Starting Well Partnership, highlighted the seriousness of second-hand smoking on children.

She said: "It’s fantastic we are now able to offer vapes to over 18s, as an alternative to traditional NRT methods in supporting family members with young children who want to stop smoking.

"The effects of second-hand smoking on babies and children can be really serious and we hope offering vapes will help many more homes to become ‘smoke free’."

To get in touch with the new service or to book an appointment, anyone interested can email Whcnhs.smokefreehomes@nhs.net.

More information is available on the Starting Well Partnership website.