A spotlight on routine and manual smokers – male haulage workers

Author:
Andrew Head

Presenters:
Andrew Head
Regional Tobacco Policy Manager, Directorate of Public Health East Midlands, Nottingham, UK

Helen Shields
Regional Development Manager, LSSS, East Midlands, UK

Abstract
Routine and Manual smokers make up around half of smokers nationally. Work has been focused towards the PSA target of a prevalence rate of 26% amongst this group by the end of 2010, currently this figure is 29% nationally and in the East Midlands regional and local figures are possibly higher than this in some places.

Haulage is the number one ‘Routine and Manual’ occupation for men nationally and has a high profile in the East Midlands. Recent research into the smoking habits of this group has been undertaken in the region to better understand the group and to develop more effective communication plans and interventions.

Phase 1 of this research has identified some interesting and previously unknown facts about lifestyles, habits and the trigger points that support smoking amongst this group. Attitudes and knowledge around the support available from the NHS and the interface between Smokefree Regulations and this major employment sector were
also explored.

This analysis has clearly indicated the most successful ways to move forward in offering support to this group. Phase 2 of the research is now underway and involves looking at the types and methods of interventions that may be possible when considering the transient nature of this group of workers.

Source of funding: Department of Health

Declaration of interest: none

About the presenters
Following 18 years in local Government working in Social Services provision, Andrew moved into the private sector working for a national charity. In addition to operational management he was responsible for managing compliance with appropriate regulation and company policies.

Moving back to local Government in 2005, this time into Environmental Health and Health Promotion Andrew successfully applied for his current role and joined the Department of Health in the East Midlands as Regional Tobacco Policy Manager.

Helen Shields is Regional Development Manager for the Stop Smoking Services, East Midlands. A varied career within Health Education with particular interest in smoking cessation. Before joining the Department of Health as Development Manager, Helen worked within an NHS Stop Smoking Service.