Bristol Backs Stoptober to Help Residents Quit Smoking

A national campaign to help people quit smoking is returning this October, and Bristol leaders are encouraging residents to take part.

Stoptober runs throughout the month, offering people the chance to access free support, tools and advice to help them stop smoking. Councillor Stephen Williams, Chair of the Public Health Committee, is backing the campaign and says tackling smoking remains a priority for the city.

Smoking rates in Bristol have fallen to 12.7%, but the impact of smoking on health and families remains significant. In some areas of the city, more than one in five households include a smoker, with health inequalities felt most strongly in disadvantaged communities.

“Smoking leads to poorer health, shorter lives and financial pressure for families already facing hardship,” said Councillor Williams. “It’s more than a personal health issue – it affects children, families and whole communities.”

Smoke Free Bristol provides free support for anyone ready to quit. This includes one-to-one sessions, nicotine replacement therapies, the Quit with Bella app and vape kits for adult smokers through the Swap to Stop scheme.

Residents are reminded that quitting smoking is challenging, but help is available locally. Each cigarette missed is a step toward better health, more savings and a brighter future.

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