Look Smokin' Hot This Christmas – Ditch The Ciggies

Quit smoking and look your best this Christmas! That's the message from Swindon's NHS Stop Smoking service, who say people that quit smoking will see a marked improvement in their appearance.

Cherry Jones, Head of Health Improvement for Swindon PCT, said: "If you want to look your best for the Christmas party then quitting smoking is an excellent way to do it. Quitting can improve your skin and your smile – and your breath will smell a million times sweeter under the mistletoe. Quit for five days and you'll even have enough saved to have you hair done!

"Some people may like to start with a clean slate and we hope residents thinking about stopping will also use New Year's resolutions as a kick-start for quitting altogether."

Swindon NHS Stop Smoking Service Clinics

To help people achieve their goal, Swindon's NHS Stop Smoking service is making it more convenient for residents wanting to quit to access its clinics. Stop smoking groups are now being held at a number of locations including the Carfax St Walk-in Centre and West Swindon Health Centre. There are also some evening sessions available at the Clover Primary Care Centre based at the Great Western Hospital, and Saturday clinics are now available.

Top Tips

If you have decided to ditch cigarettes for good, here are some top tips to help you stick at it:

• Call your local free stop smoking service on 0800 389 2229 for help, support, and advice you need
• You are four times more likely to quit using the NHS Stop Smoking service
• Get some Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) such as patches or gum (on prescription). It can double your chance of stopping – talk to your GP or pharmacist, most of whom will also offer the NHS Stop Smoking service.
• Write down all the reasons why you want to stop and stick it on the fridge to help you stay motivated
• Talk to your friends, family and workmates – support from them is essential – why not quit together and keep each other motivated?

Swindon Tobacco Control Partnership

Swindon PCT is a member of the Swindon Tobacco Control Partnership working towards a smokefree town. The PCT runs a free stop smoking service, which can offer you advice, information and support on quitting and details on your nearest groups and support advisors. All you have to do is call: 0800 389 2229.

Further Information

For more information on stopping smoking, see the NHS Smoke Free website (www.gosmokefree.co.uk).