CAROL Foley, Service Lead for the Isle of Wight Stop
Smoking Service, who leads the new service says, “ By
offering smokers, who wish to quit smoking, a variety of
places, times and type of support, it is even easier for the
16,000 smokers on the Isle of Wight to get help to quit.
Evidence shows that you are four times more likely to quit
and remain smoke free if you get help and support from
a trained stop-smoking advisor. Specialist advisors are
able to offer smoking cessation support to smokers both
pre and post operatively. By working with outpatients
and pre- assessment services, the recovery of the smokers,
both during and after their operation, is greatly improved
and significantly reduces the length of a hospital stay. The
introduction of the Smoke Free Hospital site has also
encouraged both staff and patients to attempt to quit. By
reducing the prevalence of smoking within the workforce,
a significant reduction in smoking related sickness absence
and costly backfill is achieved. A specialist advisor is also
able to offer support to pregnant smokers and partners.
The type of support that is available within the
community ranges from one to one support or mini
groups to community drop in sessions. All advisors are
trained to Department of Health requirements and will
support smokers throughout their ‘quit’ attempt. Some
forms of General Sales List Nicotine Replacement will be
available from all venues. A one off prescription fee may
be required.
By listening to smokers on the Isle of Wight and taking
into consideration their fears, prejudices and ideas about
quitting, your local NHS Stop Smoking Service is able
to offer a patient centred service. Your local service offers
non-judgemental, evidence based support to all those
wishing to quit smoking.
To find your nearest venue for support or more information
on quitting smoking, please call 01983 814280 or txt or
call 07919619849 or email islandquitters@iow.nhs.uk.
All GPs and Community Pharmacies that are offering
this extended service will display a blue Smoke - Free sign
in thier window.