A Scottish health charity’s national campaign is urging Ayrshire and Arran residents who smoke to make attempts to quit tobacco on No Smoking Day (Wednesday 12 March 2025) to win better physical health, mental wellbeing and personal finances.
ASH Scotland’s ‘Quit and win’ campaign is highlighting that an average smoker who gives up tobacco could save £3,332 within 12 months and increase their opportunity to live a healthier life through improving mental health and decreasing the risks of developing coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia and some cancers.
The campaign is promoting the free personalised stop smoking support available from specialist Quit Your Way services across the country, including the local service provided by NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Most people in Scotland who give up smoking do so without quit aids but for those who need support, nicotine replacement patches, gums or lozenges that are backed by established evidence and safety controls can help your chances of success, along with free expert health advice from Quit Your Way services.
“Two thirds of adults who smoke wish they had never started, and leaving tobacco behind on No Smoking Day is the best thing that people in Ayrshire and Arran can do to improve their physical health and mental wellbeing, and to save money that could go towards buying something special.”
Lynne McNiven, NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Director of Public Health said: “Stopping smoking can be tough, but the good news is there are lots of things you can do to really help kick the habit and encourage a new and healthy lifestyle.
“Our local Quit Your Way advisors are available to provide you with the support you need to help stop smoking. The team can be contacted by telephone on 0800 783 9132, or by digital appointments and provide free nicotine replacement therapy. You are three times more likely to stop and stay stopped with our free support and nicotine replacement products.”
Anyone who has the goal of giving up smoking is advised to visit – https://www.nhsaaa.net/services/services-a-z/better-health/smoking/ or call the free helpline on 0800 783 9132.