Stop smoking and get Winter Ready

Start your journey to quit smoking today and you can improve your body's defences against Covid-19 as well as having healthier skin, more energy, and an improved sense of smell.

That’s the message the West Lancashire Partnership are sharing with smokers across West Lancashire, who are being encouraged to access the free support available to help them enjoy a healthier life this winter and beyond.

Dr Peter Gregory, Chair of The West Lancashire Partnership, said: “More than ever before, it is so important that we look after our lungs. The health benefits start to kick in after only 20 minutes of having your last cigarette and you’ll be helping to protect yourself against not only the flu but also catching COVID-19 and experiencing severe symptoms."

Councillor Vickie Cummins, West Lancashire Borough Council portfolio holder for Health and Wellbeing, said: “There is so much help and support available locally in West Lancashire for people who want to stop smoking so do something amazing today and make the decision to start leading a healthier lifestyle.”

If you’re ready to stop smoking, you can get dedicated support from health professionals in our local Quit Squad, so give them a call today on 0800 328 6297. 

Smokers are being urged to quit as part of the Winter Ready initiative in West Lancashire. This initiative supports people to help them take better care of themselves – and each other – over winter and beyond, whether that’s by stopping smoking, drinking less alcohol, moving more or eating more healthily.

If you stop smoking today:

• After 20 minutes your pulse rate will be starting to return to normal
• After 8 hours your oxygen levels are recovering
• After 48 hours your sense of smell and taste is improving
• After 72 hours your breathing feels easier & your energy levels are increasing
• After 3 to 9 months any coughs, wheezing or breathing problems will be improving as your lung function increases by up to 100%
• After 10 years your risk of lung cancer will have halved in comparison to smokers

As well as encouraging people in West Lancashire to be a little healthier, GPs will be contacting those at most risk of serious illness if they contract COVID-19. This includes people with type 2 diabetes, COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and/or obesity, to offer bespoke support.

To find out more about the Winter Ready Programme or to speak to one of the team, please visit Winter Ready, email WinterReady@westlancs.gov.uk or call 0800 616 667.