As we enter October, councils across England are once again backing Stoptober, the annual national campaign that encourages smokers to make a quit attempt for 28 days.
Now in its 14th year, Stoptober has become a cornerstone of public health messaging, helping over 2.5 million people take the first step toward a smoke-free life.
This year's theme, "Let's Quit Smoking Together," emphasises the power of community, peer support, and local services in helping people quit. For councillors, this is a timely opportunity to lead by example, amplify local efforts, and ensure that residents know where to turn for help.
Despite significant progress in reducing smoking rates, tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable illness and death in England. Smoking is responsible for around 75,000 deaths each year and costs the NHS an estimated £3 billion annually. It is also a major driver of health inequalities, with smoking rates disproportionately higher in more deprived communities.
Evidence shows that if a smoker can go 28 days smoke-free, they are five times more likely to quit for good. Stoptober provides the structure, motivation, and support to help people achieve that milestone.
Through integrated stop smoking services, community outreach, and targeted campaigns, across the country, councils are stepping up with innovative approaches to make quitting more accessible and appealing.
Bath & Northeast Somerset Council
Through its "Swap to Stop" initiative, the council is offering free vape starter kits, premium access to the Smoke Free app, and one-to-one behavioural support. The programme is designed to reach smokers who have struggled with traditional quit methods and is being promoted through GP surgeries, pharmacies, and community venues.
City of Wolverhampton Council
Wolverhampton's Live Well service is providing a comprehensive 12-week quit programme that includes vape kits, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and face-to-face support. Outreach teams are hosting events in Queen Square and local markets to engage residents directly and offer on-the-spot advice.
Walsall Council
Walsall's "Be Well Walsall" service has seen a 485% increase in uptake since expanding its offer to include prescription medication (Varenicline) and regulated vape products. The service is also working with local employers to promote quitting in the workplace.
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
Healthy Cornwall is promoting peer support groups, digital quit tools, and community events throughout October. The campaign is being delivered in partnership with local NHS trusts and voluntary sector organisations to ensure wide reach.
Camden and Islington (via CNWL NHS Trust)
The Breathe Stop Smoking Service is running a series of outreach events in hospitals, libraries, and community centres. They are also conducting telephone follow-ups with former service users to prevent relapse and offer renewed support.
The Government's ambition to create a smoke-free generation-defined as smoking prevalence of 5 per cent or less-requires sustained local leadership. Councils are already doing much of the heavy lifting through public health commissioning, community engagement, and targeted interventions.
Stoptober is a moment to galvanise those efforts, reach new audiences, and remind residents that quitting is possible-and that they don't have to do it alone.
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