Trying to quit smoking? Free support is available at more than 500 services across NI

Friday 02 October 2026

Smokers across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to use Stoptober as their starting point to quit for good, with more than 500 free support services available through pharmacies, GP practices, health trusts and community settings.

Evidence highlighted by the Public Health Agency (PHA) shows that people who stop smoking for 28 days are much more likely to quit permanently, while getting professional support can further improve the chances of success.

Free help to quit

Doreen Regan, Health Improvement Officer with the PHA, said:

“Stoptober is a great opportunity to take the first step towards becoming smoke free. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, whatever your age and however long you have smoked.

“While stopping smoking can be challenging, you don’t have to do it alone. Support is available in communities right across Northern Ireland, and people who use stop smoking services are much more likely to quit successfully than those who go it alone.”

Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of ill-health and premature death in Northern Ireland, according to the PHA, contributing to more than 2,000 deaths each year.

Last year, more than 9,500 people set a quit date through PHA-funded Stop Smoking Services, with almost six in ten reporting that they were smoke free four weeks later.

Previous attempts still count

For those who have tried unsuccessfully to stop before, the PHA says another attempt is worthwhile and previous efforts can help people identify what works for them.

Doreen said:

“Every cigarette damages health and every quit attempt matters. Many people make several attempts before they quit for good, so if you’ve tried before, don’t be discouraged. Each attempt helps you learn what works for you and brings you closer to becoming smoke free.

“This year’s Stoptober message is simple: let’s quit smoking together. Whether that’s with support from a stop smoking advisor, encouragement from friends and family, or by quitting alongside someone you know, having support can make a real difference.”

Tips for quitting smoking

The PHA recommends choosing a quit date and sticking to it, planning how to manage cravings and using stop smoking support and medication where appropriate.

People are also advised to tell friends and family they are quitting, keep busy, change routines associated with smoking and focus on benefits including better health, wellbeing and money saved.

Protecting the next generation

The PHA is also highlighting the Tobacco and Vapes Act, legislation intended to reduce tobacco use among future generations and strengthen protections for children and young people.

Doreen added:

“The Tobacco and Vapes Act is an important step towards a healthier future for our children and young people. However, it is equally important that we continue to support people who currently smoke.

“By quitting today, you can improve your health, save money, protect those around you from second-hand smoke and set a positive example for the next generation.”

Anyone ready to make a quit attempt can find details of free local support through Stop Smoking NI⁠. Further information about the Tobacco and Vapes Act is available from the Department of Health⁠.