Stockport Council urges smokers to quit this Stoptober

Stockport Council is urging smokers in the borough to participate in the nation’s biggest quit attempt, Stoptober.

Stoptober started on 1st October, encouraging smokers to quit the habit for 28 days. Research shows that after 28 days, smokers are five times more likely to overcome their addiction and quite for good. Smoking attacks our lungs over time and makes it harder to breathe.

This year, smokers in Greater Manchester can download a free mobile app and order a free Stoptober quit kit, packed with everything they need to take part. In 2019, the local Stop Smoking Service saw a near-doubling of people quitting during the stop smoking challenge.

With the Smoke Free app, Stoptober participants can keep motivated, monitor your health improvements and track how much money you save. The app is free for six months when signing up online with a Stockport postcode.

Quitting is the single best thing regular smokers can do for their health and also helps to save around £165 a month (based on smoking 10-a-day). Other benefits include a significant improvement to mood and helping to relieve stress, anxiety and depression.

Good health has never been more important. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory infection that affects the lungs and airways and can cause life-threatening complications. People who smoke tobacco generally have a higher risk of developing these infections and are more likely to suffer worse symptoms or face severe complications if they end up in hospital. This is because smoking damages the lungs, heart, and weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections.

Cllr Jude Wells, Stockport Council’s Cabinet Member Adult Care and Health said:

It’s well known how many benefits that stopping smoking can create. If this year has been the wake-up call you needed to quit, then why not take part in the 28-day Stoptober challenge.

“You’re far more likely to quit if you have the support you need, so make sure to take advantage of the online support available. And if you’ve already managed to stay smoke free and are reaping the benefits, why not encourage a friend or family member to give Stoptober a go too.”