SMOKERS in Warrington are being urged to ‘swap ash for cash’ tomorrow, Wednesday (March 13) when they can consider the financial benefits of quitting to celebrate the 30th anniversary of No Smoking Day.
Nearly one in six UK adults smoke (1), including 20.4 per cent in Warrington (2). But UK figures show two thirds want to quit (3).
This year smokers can focus on what they could afford to buy if they were to quit for a day (saving £7), a week (£49), a month (£210) and a year (£2,555).
LiveWire and partners including Warrington Borough Council and Warrington Wolves Foundation will be teaming up to host a wealth of activities throughout March to promote No Smoking Day. Highlights on Wednesday will see a visit from Wolfie (Warrington Wolves Mascot) and Evil Big Cig boarding the Health Bus, which will be located outside Lloyds TSB Bank on Horse Market Street in Warrington Town Centre, where they aim to help smokers ditch the cigarettes for good.
Dianne Clarke, LiveWire’s Health and Wellbeing Manager said: “One of the biggest incentives for smokers to quit comes from considering the real amount of money they spend on cigarettes and thinking about what themselves and their family could afford if they were to give up for good.
“By tallying up the exact amount of money that could be saved, smokers can work towards an actual goal – be it a new pair of shoes, a family trip to the cinema or a dream holiday.
“No Smoking Day provides the perfect opportunity for people to join hundreds of others in Warrington attempting to quit on the same day. This is why LiveWire’s efforts in spreading the word about the support available are so important, to help many make their first steps towards a healthier and wealthier, smoke free life.”
The annual health campaign, run by the British Heart Foundation, is now in its 30th year and helped more than 760,000 people quit smoking last year and inspired another 1.5 million to seek out information to help them quit in future.
For more information on stopping smoking and the free help and support you can get in Warrington call 01925 843713 or visit www.livewirewarrington.co.uk
1.Statistics from ASH fact sheet. Facts at a glance – smoking statistics. July 2011.
2.Statistics from 2007 Joint Strategic Needs Analysis – Review due out in June 2013
3.Statistics from ASH fact sheet. Facts at a glance – smoking statistics. July 2011.
