Free support on offer to help make 2026 the year you quit
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging smokers to make quitting smoking their New Year’s resolution and to take a positive step towards better health. The agency funds a range of free stop smoking support services to help people on their quit journey.
Colette Rogers, Strategic Lead for Tobacco Control at the PHA, said: “The beginning of a new year provides a brilliant opportunity to make a fresh start and to quit smoking. It’s one of the best things you can do to improve your health and protect people around you from harmful second-hand smoke. Quitting will also save you money, which you could put towards something else you’ve been hoping to do for a while, or treat yourself.
“There is lots of free support available across Northern Ireland to help you quit. You can access services through many community pharmacies, GP practices, HSC Trusts, and community and voluntary organisations.
“If you smoke and really want to quit, but you aren’t sure where to begin, get in touch with one of our stop smoking services, as. they can give you the support you need. You don’t have to do it alone, and studies have shown that you are four times more likely to quit for good with nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and specialist support. There are lots of tried and tested tips to make quitting easier, and services will work with you on your quit plan, looking at how to cope with cravings, manage stress, avoid weight gain and develop a healthier lifestyle.
“Licensed nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) such as patches, gum and sprays are available free of charge through stop smoking services. These services also provide up to 12 weeks’ behavioural support to help you quit for good.
“In 2024/25, a total of 9,587 people were reported to have set a quit date through our stop smoking services. This year could be your year to quit for good and join the thousands of people across Northern Ireland making a positive change to improve their health.”
Five top tips for giving up smoking:
- Set a quit date – and stick to it!
- Make a quit plan. Think about what could help you stop smoking, such as using a nicotine-replacement product, and have it ready before the date you plan to stop.
- Get support from your local Stop Smoking Service. Also, let your family and friends know that you're quitting. Some people find that talking to friends and relatives who have stopped can be helpful.
- Keep busy to help take your mind off cigarettes. Try to change your routine, (and plan alternative activities for places you associate with smoking) and avoid the shop where you normally buy cigarettes.
- Remind yourself that the money saved now from not smoking can be used for other things you or your family want or need.
For more information on the free services available near you and for help on stopping smoking, visit www.stopsmokingni.info