Smokefree Starts: Sharing Real Stories in Sheffield

In August, we launched several stories captured with local people in Sheffield. We spoke with Cal and Isabelle, both in their thirties, about their journeys to stopping smoking. We discussed their individual experiences of the Smokefree Sheffield service and the benefits that not smoking has had on their mental health.

The videos are filmed in Sheffield to bring a sense of familiarity and enable people to identify with the stories. The ambition is to inspire millennials in Sheffield, who are open to stopping smoking, to reach out to local services for support to quit.

“It’s great to have both Cal and Isabelle’s experience of the service reflected in their stories. Knowing that they have both benefited from the personal, friendly and flexible approach we offer is important for us as we review and develop how the service is delivered.”

Maggie Milne, Smokefree Sheffield Service Manager

The aim of this campaign is to inspire and empower people, while promoting the benefits of quitting for mental health. The ambition is for other people in Sheffield and across South Yorkshire to stop smoking for good.

“Few people know that stopping smoking is associated with improvements in mental health. That is why this campaign is so important and these stories from people in the local community are vital in motivating others to give quitting another go to improve not only their physical health but their mental health too and reap the benefits. Accessing support via our services also means you are three times more likely to
achieve success.”

Sarah Hepworth, Associate Director of South Yorkshire Tobacco Control
Alliance.

For more information about Smokefree Starts visit smokefreestarts.co.uk.