No Smoking Day 2022
A couple from East Preston are celebrating this year’s No Smoking Day with better health - and hundreds of pounds saved - thanks to free support from Arun’s wellbeing team to give up for good.
Paula Chapman and Gordon Scott are sharing their story to mark No Smoking Day on Wednesday 9 March and inspire others to kick the habit permanently.
The couple quit smoking last November 2021 with dedicated support from Arun’s wellbeing team. Advisors provided free help and were with them every step of the way.
The couple, both in their 50s, had health concerns as their smoking had increased during lockdown. Paula, who smoked 15-20 cigarettes a day, had been worried about her tight breathing. Partner Gordon, who was smoking 20 cigarettes a day, noticed his asthma was becoming more problematic, requiring more puffs on his inhaler. He was experiencing a wheezy chest and was concerned about his health.
He said: “Having support from a wellbeing advisor helped us both through this process. Neither of us knew much about nicotine replacement therapy. Having advice on how to use it, and in what amounts, and when, plus regular contact, has been invaluable.”
Paula and Gordon have both noticed huge improvements to their health since giving up. After three months Paula’s breathing had returned to normal, while Gordon’s asthma had improved and he was using his inhaler much less. The couple estimate they are both about £280 better off each month as well.
Arun’s wellbeing team provides free, confidential advice and support to help change smoking habits for residents across Arun who smoke. The service is open to anyone aged over the age of 18.
Councillor Jacky Pendleton, the Chair of Arun District Council’s Housing and Wellbeing Services Committee, said:
“I want to offer my congratulations to Paula and Gordon for giving up. This is a great example of the positive difference our wellbeing team are making with residents across the district.
“You are four times more likely to quit smoking if you do it with support. No matter how long you have smoked for, quitting will improve your health almost immediately.
“I encourage residents across the district who smoke to follow the lead of Paula and Gordon and get in touch with us.”
Advisers from the team offer:
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6-12 support sessions to help people plan how to quit
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Regular carbon monoxide readings to track improvements
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Nicotine replacement therapies
Contact the Arun Wellbeing team by calling 01903 737862 or visit www.arunwellbeing.org.uk and complete the self-referral form.