A MOBILE clinic aimed at helping people to kick the smoking habit was launched in Durham today (Thursday, May 19).

Stop smoking advisors will be able to take their help direct to County Durham communities with the new Wellness on Wheels.

Smokefreelife County Durham, commissioned by Durham County Council and delivered by Solutions 4 Health (S4H), provides free targeted support for smokers.

Council cabinet member for adult and health services, Lucy Hovvels, said: “Smoking is still the biggest preventable cause of ill health in County Durham, and contributes to the death of nearly 1,200 people every year.

“We know many people who smoke would like to quit, so with support from our new Smokefreelife County Durham service, smokers will be helped to make their first step to a healthier and wealthier future.”

The Smokefreelife County Durham service is now available seven days a week, with services including the mobile clinic offered alongside a free telephone Quitline, text, email and traditional face-to-face support.

The existing dedicated 21-strong team was previously part of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. The team has transferred over to Solutions 4 Health to ensure a continuity of care and a continuing strong relationship with pharmacists, GPs, midwives, hospital consultants, health care and voluntary sector professionals.

Sue Sear, the regional lead for Smokefreelife County Durham, said: “We take a very positive approach and are about reducing health inequalities through supporting and empowering people to improve their health and wellbeing.

“After all, smokers are at least four times more likely to quit successfully when they have professional support.”

For more information about Smokefreelife contact 0800 772 0565 or 0191 369 2106, text QUIT to 66777, or visit the website, www.smokefreelifecountydurham.co.uk.