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Stopping smoking

Stopping smoking is one of the best things you will ever do for your health. Quitting is much easier when you get the right support and there are lots of options to choose from.

Promotional graphic with a light blue background featuring the NHS Better Health campaign. Text reads: 'Quit smoking. Start saving. Join the thousands of people who are quitting smoking.' A hand is holding a smartphone displaying the NHS Quit Smoking app interface, showing savings of £128 and costs per cigarette, pack, and pouch. Logos for 'Google Play' and 'App Store' indicate the app's availability. The NHS and Better Health logos are displayed prominently.

Never give up on giving up. Every time you try to stop smoking, you’re a step closer to success.

Why quit?

One of the best reasons to quit is the benefit to your own health and wellbeing:

  • smoking causes serious health problems, many of them life-threatening
  • smoking increases your risk of stroke and heart disease, and your chances of developing respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema
  • smoking can contribute to several types of cancer (not just lung cancer) and a certain type of leukaemia
  • smoking can also damage your ability to conceive and is dangerous for your unborn child if you are pregnant
  • smoking can damage the health of your family and friends through breathing second-hand smoke.

Download the free NHS Quit Smoking app

Use the NHS Quit Smoking app to help you quit smoking and start breathing easier.

The app allows you to:

  • track your progress
  • see how much you’re saving
  • get daily support

If you can make it to 28 days smoke-free, you’re 5 times more likely to quit for good!

Where can I find local help to quit?

Essex Stop Smoking Service

Stop Smoking services are available, and free, to everyone living or working in Essex via the Essex Wellbeing Service. You can contact the service by calling 0300 303 9988, emailing [email protected] or completing the online self assessment by clicking the link below.

Essex Wellbeing Service

Southend Stop Smoking Service

Smokers who live or work in Southend can access stop smoking support through the Everyone Health Lifestyle service.

You can call the team on 0333 005 0095 or email [email protected] alternatively, complete the referral form by clicking here. For health professionals that would like to refer a patient for stop smoking support, please click here.

Southend Stop Smoking Service

Thurrock Stop Smoking Service

Residents in Thurrock can get support to quit smoking through the Thurrock Healthy Lifestyles Service. You can call 0800 292 2299, email [email protected] or complete the online self referral form by clicking the link below.

Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service