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NHS Smokefree Hampshire Scheme: Your Path to a Smoke-Free Life
Nov
Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your health, and the NHS Smokefree Hampshire scheme is here to help. With friendly and expert support, free resources and personalised quit plans, the scheme offers a structured way to help smokers transition to a healthier, smoke-free lifestyle. Whether you’re considering vaping as an alternative or looking for professional support, the NHS Smokefree Hampshire program provides valuable assistance on your journey to quitting for good.
What Is the NHS Smokefree Hampshire Scheme?
The Smokefree Hampshire scheme, is a program that is run through the NHS. Most team members in Vapourium have gone through the same extensive NHS training as the GPs and pharmacists, and are NSCT qualified as Stop Smoking advisers. So, when you’re ready to quit smoking, pop into your nearest Vapourium, and ask about the service.
The NHS Smokefree scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to help people quit smoking through various support methods, including:
- Personalized quit plans based on your smoking habits
- NHS Smokefree Hampshire app for tracking progress and receiving daily motivation
- Face-to-face support from trained stop-smoking advisors
- Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches, gums, and lozenges
- Prescription medications to aid in nicotine withdrawal
- Support for vaping as a safer alternative to smoking
How Does the NHS Smokefree Hampshire Scheme Work?
The scheme tailors its approach to each individual, recognizing that quitting smoking is different for everyone. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Sign Up for Free Support
You can access the scheme through the NHS Smokefree website, by visiting your GP, your local pharmacy or by visiting your local Vapourium for stop-smoking services.
2. Choose a Quit Method
The NHS provides various quitting methods, including:
- Going cold turkey (not always the most effective but works for some)
- Nicotine replacement therapies to reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Vaping as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes (recommended)
- Prescription medications like Champix or Zyban (available through a GP)
3. Get Continuous Support
Once enrolled, you’ll receive daily motivation, expert advice, and access to local stop-smoking groups. Many people find that ongoing support makes quitting easier and more sustainable.
Does the NHS Recommend Vaping to Quit Smoking?
Yes, the NHS acknowledges that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking and can be an effective tool for quitting. Many people have successfully used e-cigarettes to transition away from traditional cigarettes. If you’re considering vaping as part of your quit journey, choosing a high-quality vape device and the right nicotine strength is crucial for success. with Smokefree you are able to be supplied with a free £25 voucher to be used at Vapourium to get you started. You will also get another £5 voucher once you have completed the scheme.
What requirements do you need to qualify for the Smokefree Hampshire scheme?
To qualify for the scheme your need to be:
- Currently smoking (this is tested through a CO2 reading)
- Live in the local area (anywhere in Hampshire)
- You need to be with a local GP in the area (anywhere in Hampshire)
- You need to be willing to commit to 4-12 weekly meet ups or phone appointments (depending on the area)
The Benefits of Quitting with NHS Smokefree
✅ Improved Health
Within 20 minutes of quitting, your body starts to recover. After a year, your risk of heart disease is cut in half compared to a smoker.
✅ Free Expert Guidance
The scheme connects you with trained professionals who provide guidance tailored to your needs.
✅ Reduced Costs
Smoking is expensive! By quitting, you could save thousands of pounds each year.
✅ Flexible Methods
From NRTs to vaping, the NHS Smokefree scheme allows you to choose the best approach for your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Is the NHS Smokefree Scheme Right for You?
If you’re serious about quitting smoking, the NHS Smokefree Hampshire scheme provides the tools and support needed to succeed. Whether you opt for nicotine replacement, vaping, or professional advice, the program offers a structured approach to help you become smoke-free for good.
Ready to start your smoke-free journey? Visit the NHS Smokefree website today and take the first step towards a healthier future!
FAQ
What is the NHS Smokefree Hampshire Scheme? It’s a free service offered by the NHS to help current smokers switch over from smoking. It includes weekly meet-ups, hands-on help and support for up to 12 weeks. You’ll be talked through all the options you need to quit smoking, what to expect and even a £25 voucher to help you get started!
Who’s eligible to join? Anyone over the age of 18 (scheme/support dependant) who is a current smoker, is registered with a GP and lives or works within Hampshire.
Is it really free? Yes, it’s free to join, and if your budget doesn’t allow it, we can make sure you leave here with full starter kit and enough liquids to last you for the initial couple of days. The only extra costs at the initial appointment would be if you preferred a set up that exceeds the £25 voucher. Ongoing, you would not have to pay for any meetings or CO2 readings, you’ll only need to pay for supplies that you need to keep you going.
How do I sign up? You can either go through Smokefree Hampshire if you don’t like the idea of vaping, or pop into your local Vapourium shop to get set up with a vape kit.
How long does the programme last? Core support runs for 12 weeks, with the first 4 weeks being crucial! For the first 4 weeks, we need you to come in on a weekly basis to give a CO2 reading, after that we can give you support as you need it.
What if I miss a session? It’s not a problem! As a shop, we’re very flexible with your appointments, however persistence is key! Try to let us know if you need to reschedule.
What if I don’t want to go through the NHS? It’s not a problem! Thanks to the training of our staff, the same support is available regardless of whether you go through the scheme or not, you just won’t be eligible for the vouchers supplied by the NHS and will have to cover the full cost of buying a kit and liquids yourself.
