Smoking cessation and the workplace
Michelle Battlemuch, Stop Smoking Service Team Leader, Nottingham City PCT, UK and Rachel Lewis, Specialist Stop Smoking Advisor, City Council, Nottingham, UK

Abstract

Aim:
To reduce smoking prevalence in the worst 20% of super-output areas (SOA) for CVD and SOA s ranked in the worst 10% for deprivation in Nottingham City, through targeting workplaces.

Methods:
Businesses were initially contacted from a locally developed database. As links were made with colleagues in public and private sectors, alternative forms of initial contact were
established. To ensure standardisation in approaches, a protocol was produced.

Support with smoking policy development and implementation formed a support package offered to businesses, alongside specific business benefits of offering smoking cessation clinics. This was delivered within a health needs assessment approach.

The structure and length of clinics were adapted dependent on the nature of the business. Clinics were also implemented in a multitude of formats, ensuring flexibility and adaptability to the needs of the employer and employees. All clinics incorporated the issuing of NRT, motivational support and CO monitoring as part of their content.

In addition to clinical and health services, a training package has been developed to increase managers confidence in raising smoking cessation issues with employees, promoting sustainability.

Results:
The average 4-week quit rate success equated to 33%. Employee evaluations were extremely positive suggesting employees found this service convenient and supportive. In addition employees also felt that the service demonstrated a positive and caring approach by their employer.