Deep Dive: Access to Stop Smoking Services

Healthwatch Thurrock was commissioned by Public Health to conduct research and engagement on access to local stop smoking services, specifically Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service. They undertook a survey to which 54 people responded. They also undertook some case studies

The research and engagement with the identified groups have provided valuable insights into the specific needs and challenges individuals face when seeking support to quit smoking. A key finding is that the local stop smoking service (Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service) is not widely visible in public spaces and their online presence can be hard to find (it is located on the council website and hidden on many GP websites). The current website also is heavily focused on the swap to stop initiative, when THLS also offer lozenges, NRT patches, inhalators and access to pharmacotherapy. 

This lack of awareness highlights the critical need for a more robust and supported approach to comms and marketing for the service to ensure Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service can reach those wanting to access it. People can only access support if they know it exists, and without increased visibility, many individuals remain unaware of the resources available to them. 

To address this, community and outreach workers are essential. These professionals are in the best position to build connections within communities, especially with groups that are more insular or hesitant to engage with formal services such as adults with substance misuse and pregnant people. Establishing and maintaining trust within these communities is vital, and outreach workers play a pivotal role in fostering that trust. By working directly with individuals, they can create a more personable and supportive environment that encourages people to seek and accept help for smoking cessation. 

Furthermore, the findings suggest that traditional incentives (i.e. financial as some other national programmes do) alone are not sufficient to motivate individuals to quit smoking. Those who shared their smoking journeys consistently agreed that the reasons for smoking—such as stress management, coping with emotional challenges, and the physical habit of hand-to-mouth action—must be addressed directly. A more effective approach would involve a holistic solution that takes into account not just the physical addiction to nicotine but also the emotional triggers that lead people to smoke in the first place. One potential solution is the incorporation of peer or group support. Many individuals find strength and motivation through shared experiences, and group support could create a sense of community that empowers smokers to quit together. 

Additionally, tools to help manage the physical aspects of smoking, such as fidget spinners or rings, could provide individuals with a practical way to break the hand-to-mouth habit, which is often a significant barrier in the quitting process. 

In conclusion, while the current stop smoking service offers valuable support, it is clear that a multifaceted approach is needed to overcome the barriers faced by those seeking to quit. By improving the visibility of the service, empowering community outreach workers, and addressing the emotional and behavioural aspects of smoking, we can offer a more comprehensive and effective solution. A holistic approach that considers both the physical and psychological elements of smoking addiction will ultimately increase the likelihood of success for those trying to quit.