8 March 2006 - No Smoking Day

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NHS ARGYLL & Clyde is backing the No Smoking Day Campaign (8 March 2006), which highlights ‘There has never been a better time to give up!’

On 26th March 2006, smoking will be prohibited in almost all enclosed public places in Scotland. Many smokers who have tried to quit cite being in a social environment such as a pub or club as the biggest temptation to start again – from 26th March, these places will be smoke-free so those in the process of giving up can still enjoy a night out! Thousands of smokers in Scotland will be using the forthcoming legislation as impetus to stop smoking.

On the 1st February 2006 NHS Argyll & Clyde introduced a new Tobacco Policy, which meant that smoking is no longer permitted in NHS Argyll & Clyde premises and grounds. The policy aims to protect patients, workers and visitors from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. NHS Argyll & Clyde is urging staff, patients and visitors to comply with the policy in order to ensure its success.

Anne Bryce, Tobacco Coordinator – Health Promotion, said

“"There has never been a better time to stop smoking. As well as protecting people from the harmful effects of second hand smoke this far reaching and ambitious step later this month will help many people to give up smoking. I know how difficult it is to stop smoking but it is the best decision a smoker can make. Stopping smoking is not only good for the health of the individual but Scotland as a whole.

“As part of the ongoing awareness raising campaign on smoking we have chosen the workplace as the focus for the No Smoking Day 2006 campaign in Argyll & Clyde. Information about NSD has been sent out companies throughout our area along with information about the local smoking cessation services.

“One of the main reasons for NHS Argyll & Clyde introducing its new Tobacco policy before the 26th March was to lead by example and encourage other workplaces to implement a similar policy.

“We recognised that this may be a particularly challenging time and therefore staff and patients and members of the public in general are being encouraged to attend their local smoking cessation service to get support and advice on how to give up smoking.

“Around 150 staff working throughout NHS Argyll & Clyde have taken up the support offered and are having a go at quitting, since our campaign started late last year. By getting support you are four times more likely to be successful in stopping smoking. Whatever help you want – whether information, advice or support, the advisors would be delighted to help. Just pick up the phone.”

Press Release: Tuesday 7 March 2006