Students at Malet Lambert Secondary School in Hull are marking the start of a new region-wide campaign to get more people to quit smoking for good across the city.
The ‘Yes to Quit’ campaign launched today (25 March), across TV, radio, transport links and social media throughout Yorkshire and the Humber.
The campaign asks audiences ‘What will you miss?’ more than smoking – such as weddings, births or quality time with others – that two in three smokers will miss by dying too soon unless they quit.
Students from the school have made out some of the key stats facing adult smokers across the region, such as 7,456 lives each year lost due to smoking related illness across the wider Yorkshire and Humber region, filmed by drones over the playground.
The students represent a smokefree future where 480 lives could be saved in Hull each year if we support people to stop and prevent young people from ever starting.
The campaign coincides with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill’s progression through Parliament this week, which aims to create a smoke-free generation by restricting the sale of tobacco products and regulating vaping.
Patrick Sprakes, Headteacher of Malet Lambert School said: “This has been a brilliant project to get involved in, and one we are passionate about, as we want our pupils to live long, healthy lives.
“Unfortunately, many of our pupils know someone, often a family member, who has been harmed by tobacco; and it has been really useful to discuss with them the impact smoking can have. We want starting to smoke in the future to not even be a consideration for our pupils.”
Julia Weldon, Director of Public Health and Deputy CEO of Hull City Council said: “This campaign is a very stark reminder of the impact that smoking has on long-term smokers – claiming 480 lives each year in Hull. We hope that by uniting across the region to help people quit, we can protect future generations from ever starting. The Third Reading of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is positive step towards a smokefree future, protecting people from tobacco harm and making it easier for smokers to quit for good. With the right support, people can successfully quit and live healthier, longer lives.”
Tracy Mikkelson-Edwards, Manager of Smokefree Hull said: “We sadly see the impact of smoking every day, but it’s amazing to be able to help people quit smoking and see the positive improvements in all areas of their lives. Most people have tried many times and want to stop but have been trapped in the addiction since adolescence.
“Our advisors are completely non-judgemental and work with each person individually to help them find a way that works for them – and there is always a way.
“We know we can extend and improve lives, enabling people to see their child or grandchild grow up and enjoy all the things they are looking forward to.
“There are so many ways to quit. If you’ve tried before, don’t stop trying, we would love to help, and your next attempt could be the one that works.”
Throughout the campaign, people will be sharing their experiences of quitting and what worked for them.
Lenny Bottomly, who quit smoking with the help of SmokeFree Hull said: “Jo at Smokefree Hull was great at giving me counselling advice and ideas on other things I do to replace my habits around smoking.
“I struggled for the first few weeks, but it got easier and easier.
“Now I feel great, really. I’m telling anyone and everyone who smokes to get in touch with them as its one of the best things I ever did!”
If you, or someone you care about is thinking of quitting smoking visit www.yestoquit.co.uk, or for Hull residents contact Hull stop smoking service – SmokeFree Hull.