D (Don't) Day has arrived

Herefordshire, along with the rest of England, went smokefree on Sunday, July 1.

Herefordshire council, unlike some other authorities, did not send out ‘anti-smoking police’ but has adopted a policy of working with businesses to try to get overall compliance.

A campaign lasting for six months has highlighted the changes in the law and provided promotional materials and advice to businesses and the public through the council’s website, business events and road shows.

Latest national research has shown that 95 per cent of people are aware of the new law and that 78 per cent (including 53 per cent of smokers) believe going smoke free will have a positive effect on health.

All enclosed premises and non-private vehicles should now be displaying the no smoking signs, and smokers should know they can only smoke outside unless in a private home or vehicle.

While the law has been introduced to protect people from second hand smoke, many smokers are using the change in law as a reason to try to quit.

In Herefordshire the Stop Smoking service has seen an increase in business and several employees from the organisations making up the Smoke free Herefordshire Partnership are using the new law to kick-start their attempts to give up. Newly elected Herefordshire  councillor Mark Hubbard (Central ward) is also using the new law as an opportunity to try to quit.

His reasons, apart from having to stand outside to smoke whether attending council meetings or socialising, include being able to breathe easier, which will help him cycle up the hill to the council headquarters in Hafod Road, and avoiding long-term health problems associated with smoking. He has the support of an ex-smoker as a mentor, and has plumped for nicotine replacement patches to help combat the nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

Councillor Hubbard said: “I have tried before, the last time I quit was for eight months beginning in September last year, but sadly I started again just before the elections in May. However, now I am in post I will try to set an example and, with the electorate’s eyes on me, I cannot afford to fail.”

Councillor Hubbard’s progress will be monitored and regular reports posted on the website, www.herefordshire.gov.uk

Anyone else wishing to stop smoking can contact the Herefordshire Stop Smoking Service on 01432 262019 or visit your local GP or pharmacist.

Ends

Press release issued: July 3 2007