Campaigns

Stoptober 2026: Take the First Step Towards a SmokeFree Future

‍Every October, thousands of people across the country make a commitment to stop smoking as part of Stoptober, the national quit-smoking campaign that encourages smokers to go smoke-free for 28 days. Evidence shows that if you can quit smoking for 28 days, you are five times more likely to quit for good.

‍If you've been thinking about quitting, Stoptober is the perfect opportunity to take that first step, and you don't have to do it alone.

Why Quit Smoking?
Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable illness and death in England, increasing the risk of serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, respiratory illnesses and cancer.

‍The benefits of quitting begin almost immediately:

  • After 20 minutes, your pulse rate starts returning to normal.

  • After 48 hours, your senses of taste and smell begin to improve.

  • After 2 to 12 weeks, your circulation improves.

  • After one year, your risk of a heart attack is around half that of a smoker.

‍Quitting can also leave you with more money in your pocket, improve your fitness, increase your energy levels and help protect the health of those around you.

You're More Likely to Succeed with Support
While many people try to quit using willpower alone, getting professional support can significantly improve your chances of success. Stoptober encourages smokers to access proven support options, including stop smoking services, nicotine replacement therapies and digital tools.

‍At SmokeFree Lancashire, we're here to help residents across Lancashire find the support that works for them. Whether you've tried quitting before or this is your first attempt, our advisors can provide guidance, encouragement and practical tools to help you stay smoke-free.

Small Changes, Big Results
Quitting smoking isn't always easy, but every smoke-free day is a positive step forward. Many ex-smokers have made several quit attempts before finding success, so don't be discouraged if you've tried before.

‍This Stoptober, focus on one goal: making it through the next 28 days. Thousands of people will be taking the challenge alongside you, creating a sense of community and shared motivation.

Join Stoptober with SmokeFree Lancashire
Whether you're ready to quit today or just starting to think about it, SmokeFree Lancashire can help you build a plan that suits your lifestyle.

Together, we can make this October the month you stop smoking for good.

Get started today and discover the benefits of a smoke-free life.

This Stoptober, let's quit smoking together. 🚭

National No Smoking Day: 11th March

No Smoking Day 2026 takes place on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, aiming to encourage smokers to quit with the theme "A smoke-free life starts with a smoke-free day".

Smokefree Lancashire are here year-round to offer information, support and advice on becoming smokefree - you’ll get a personalised quit plan from an expert advisor at a choice of face-to-face appointments or sessions over the phone.

On No Smoking Day we’ll be out and about in communities, workplaces, hospitals and GP surgeries, taking our services to where they’re needed most.

Look out for our teams, and if you or anyone you know needs help to get smokefree, they’ll be happy to help!

This is your moment!

Could January 2026 be the year you make a resolution to quit smoking and keep it?

Quitting smoking is one of the most powerful decisions you can make for your health, and 2026 offers more tools and resources than ever before to help you succeed. Whether you’ve tried before or this is your first attempt, we can support you with strategies, medications, and solutions to make quitting achievable.

Why Quit Smoking in 2026? Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable disease, but the benefits of quitting start almost immediately:

  • 20 minutes after your last cigarette: Heart rate begins to normalize.

  • 12 hours later: Carbon monoxide levels return to normal.

  • Weeks later: Breathing improves, energy rises, and risk of heart disease begins to drop.

With our help and support, you can make this year a happier and healthier one!


Stoptober may be over, but we’re still here if you need us!

Did you know that if you quit smoking for 28 days, you’re FIVE times more likely to stay smokefree for good?

Our Stoptober Big Quit sessions have now come to an end - thanks to everyone who booked on or dropped in for support, it was great to meet you!

Although Stoptober is over, our team of specialist advisors are always on hand to guide you through an approach to giving up smoking that’s tailored to your needs, including face-to-face advice, Nicotine Replacement Therapy, e-cigs or a combination to suit you.

Interested in a smokefree future? Give our awesome team a call on 0808 196 2638 or email smokefree.lancs@cgl.org.uk or click here to make a referral.

Introducing My Quit Route: Your Companion to a Smokefree Life

My quit route logo - live your life smoke-free

Take the first step toward a smokefree life with My Quit Route—a revolutionary app designed to provide expert advice and scientifically proven tools to help you quit smoking for good.

Whether used independently or in conjunction with Nicotine Replacement Therapy, stop-smoking medications, or e-cigarettes, My Quit Route offers a versatile approach tailored to your preferences.

Key Features:

  1. Personalised Quit Date: Set a quit date customised to your readiness.

  2. Comprehensive Preparation: My Quit Route meticulously readies you for your quit date, ensuring you have the tools and mindset needed for success.

Unlock the door to a smokefree future with My Quit Route. Your companion in this journey towards better health and a tobacco-free lifestyle. Start your quit journey today.

Your Guide to Quitting Success

Congratulations on taking the step to quit smoking!
Here are some helpful tips to support you on your journey:

  1. Mark Your Quit Date: Make it official by adding it to your calendar

  2. Reasons to Quit: Keep your motivations visible by listing them.

  3. Share Your Decision: Let friends and family know about your commitment.

  4. Learn from Past Attempts: Recall what worked in previous attempts to quit.

  5. Explore Stop Smoking Aids: Consider aids to ease the process.

  6. Plan for Temptations: Have strategies ready for challenging moments.

  7. Identify Triggers: List and plan to avoid your smoking triggers.

  8. Stay Busy: Engage in activities to distract from cravings.

  9. Exercise the Urge Away: Physical activity is a great distraction.

  10. Seek Support: Join our supportive community on Facebook for guidance.

Best of luck! Discard all cigarettes before you begin, and remember, you're not alone on this journey.