Navigation for Press Releases & Statements

Want help to quit? Call in to the ‘quit stop pod’

01/04/2011

 

Visitors, patients and staff at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital will be able to get on the spot advice to quit smoking thanks to an innovative ‘Quit stop pod’ opening at the hospital this week.

 

The pod, which will be situated in the atrium, is a joint initiative between Gloucestershire NHS Stop Smoking service, the Hospitals Trust, and Smokefree South West.

 

Smokers will be able to drop in for free 1:1 advice with a specialist stop smoking adviser without the need to make an appointment.

 

Welcoming the project, Elaine Watson, Manager of the Stop Smoking Service said:

 

‘We’re really excited about launching the pod. It’s a fantastic way for us to talk to smokers about the free Stop Smoking service available in the county and make sure they get the help they need to quit there and then’.

 

‘You’re four times more likely to quit when you use the support of the NHS Stop Smoking service rather than going it alone; and I’d encourage staff, visitors and patients to drop in to the pod and have a chat with one of the team. The message is simple: if you want to quit, we can help’.

 

The pod will be open Monday to Friday, seven hours a day. A booth at the back of the pod will be available for private consultations.

 

Dr Sally Pearson, Director of Clinical Strategy at the Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:

 

“We’re pleased to be able to offer this convenient drop-in service for our patients, visitors and staff at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital. As a Smoke Free hospitals trust we are fully committed to providing support for those who want to quit.”

 

Elaine Watson added:

 

 ‘We know that giving up smoking isn't easy, but when you see the drastic difference it can make to your health, wellbeing and your pocket, it can be very motivating’.

 

In addition to the pod at GRH, the Stop Smoking team offer a range of free services at convenient locations across the county, including GP surgeries, pharmacies, children’s centres and workplaces.

 

To find out more call the local helpline on 08454 220040.