New 8-week course can help LGBTQ+ smokers quit for good

Smokers who identify as LGBTQ+ and live in Lambeth can get free support to help them quit smoking.

Guy's and St Thomas' tobacco dependence treatment service, who are working with Art4Space and Lambeth Links to provide the 8-week programme, say that with NHS support people are three times more likely to stop smoking.

According to the Office of National Statistics, data collected in 2018 (the latest available) suggests the proportion of smokers is higher among people who identify as gay or lesbian (22.2%) than among heterosexual (straight) people (15.5%).

Stop smoking advisors from Guy’s and St Thomas’ will help people attending these group sessions to identify smoking triggers, such as stress and social situations, and to learn how to manage these. Alongside behavioural support, the team can also provide free nicotine replacement products such as patches and chewing gum that may help with cravings.

This group is funded by Lambeth Council and open to any Lambeth residents who identify as LGBTQ+ and want to quit smoking in a group setting. Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in creative activities and practice mindfulness that will be delivered by Art4Space.

Oscar Moreno, tobacco dependence treatment manager at Guy’s and St Thomas’, said:

Our team are here to support people to reach their goal of quitting smoking for good, by providing treatments that can help beat cravings and giving motivational tips so they keep on track.

 

“These groups can create a real sense of belonging and offer a fantastic opportunity to support each other, from setting a shared quit date to supporting each other on their quitting smoking journey through their weekly sessions.

The course starts on Thursday 7 September at Art4Space in Lambeth. In order to sign up or for more information on any aspect of our tobacco dependence treatment services, contact the team on [email protected] or call 0800 856 3409.