New campaign urges scousers to stop smoking for “Stoptober”

Smokers in Liverpool are being encouraged to quit for “Stoptober” as new data shows the  city’s residents are stubbing out the habit in record numbers. 

Over the past decade, Liverpool has made significant progress in its work to tackle the harms caused by smoking – and for 2024 a new campaign is being launched informing scousers “It’s well worth it”. 

As the annual “Stoptober” campaign begins, it’s been revealed rates of smoking in the city have almost halved (47% decrease), down from 23.5% in 2013 to 12.5% in 2013. This is a faster pace than England, which has seen a 37% reduction over the same period. 

However, smoking is still the leading cause of preventable death and illness in Liverpool. 

Two in three people who smoke will die from a smoking-related illness, with countless more left suffering from disability and disease. There remain an estimated 51,203 smokers living in Liverpool. 

Earlier this year, the Liverpool Tobacco Control Strategy was launched. Working with partners across the city, the strategy outlines the city’s approach for the next six years—from changing attitudes towards smoking to lobbying for legislative change.  

The goal is to reduce the proportion of smokers in the city from just over 17% to 5% of the population by 2030. 

Participating in “Stoptober” can lead to significant health improvements. Just 72 hours after quitting, people begin to breathe easier and feel more energetic.  

Within 28 days, quitting smoking can enhance circulation and lung function, improve mood, and even give skin a healthier glow. Additionally, people may notice that food tastes better and their sense of smell improves. 

Quitting can also save an individual around £250 by the end of the month, while significantly reducing your risk of heart disease.  

For this year, Liverpool City Council is launching a new digital-first campaign titled ‘It’s Well Worth It’, which will showcase the benefits of stopping smoking for good and emphasise why it’s worth it.  

Featuring eye-catching imagery and positive reinforcement facts, the campaign will run across digital platforms throughout October, targeting those most likely to benefit.  

Councillor Harry Doyle Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture said: “We are proud to support Stoptober once again because it provides a valuable opportunity for people to take that important step towards a healthier, smoke-free life. Quitting smoking is challenging, but it’s not something you have to do alone. There is a wealth of support available to help you succeed. Whether it’s advice, resources, or encouragement, services are here to support you every step of the way. By working together, we can continue to reduce smoking rates in our city and help more residents experience the life-changing benefits of quitting.” 

Professor Matthew Ashton, Liverpool Director of Public Health said:‘ Most adult smokers want to stop smoking, but on average it takes 30 attempts, and many never succeed. The consequences of smoking affect children, young people, families and neighbourhoods across Liverpool. I therefore urge all smokers to use the opportunity Stoptober provides to break free from cigarettes and never give up on giving up’.  

Support is available to those who want to quit smoking. Visit smokefreeliverpool.co.uk or call 0151 374 2535 for more information.