Feel Good Suffolk is running a series of local support groups to help people stop smoking with expert guidance and, most importantly, the encouragement of others on the same journey.
We all know quitting smoking is tough. But it doesn’t have to be something you do on your own. Sharing the experience with others, talking honestly about the challenges, and celebrating milestones together can make all the difference.
Research shows that staying smoke-free for 28 days ensures you are up to five times more likely to quit for good. Stopping smoking means more energy, fresher skin, easier breathing – and more money in your pocket for the things you enjoy.
Each group, led by trained stop smoking advisors, runs for six weeks and offers:
- Free stop smoking products such as Nicotine Replacement Therapies and vapes.
- Practical tips and strategies to beat cravings
- Help with stress and coping mechanisms
- Advice on stop smoking products and treatments
- A supportive space to share experiences and keep each other motivated
On top of the group sessions, one-to-one support is also available for those who prefer a more personalised approach. Feel Good Suffolk is committed to helping everyone find a method that works for them, ensuring that quitting smoking is a positive and successful experience.
Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health at Suffolk County Council, said:
"Giving up smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, but we know it’s not easy. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to take advantage of the Feel Good Suffolk off this Stoptober.
“By taking part in our local group sessions, you’ll not only get professional advice but also the encouragement of a community who understands what you’re going through. ”Together we can make this Stoptober the start of something life changing."
Lowestoft resident Victoria, has seen major improvements to her health since attending a Feel Good Suffolk stop smoking group. She said;
"I so appreciate what Feel Good Suffolk have done in helping me to give up smoking. Joining the group meant I finally quit after 40 years!"
"Having a carbon monoxide reading taken each week is really helpful as you can actually see that you are improving your health. The advisors were just brilliant. They helped to find the best treatment and I could speak to them if I had any issues or needed help."
Local groups will be available in various parts of Suffolk, providing people with convenient access to the help they need. Whether you’ve tried to quit before or are doing it for the first time, you don’t have to do it alone. Feel Good Suffolk is here to support you every step of the way.
Each group session is free and will last for six weeks. Dates and venues are as follows:
- Ipswich, Gainsborough Library – starts Wednesday 24th September, 2-3pm
- Ipswich County Library (Group 1) - Saturday mornings, starting 4th October, 10-11am
- Ipswich County Library (Group 2) – Saturday mornings, starting 15th November, 10-11am
- Felixstowe, The Grove Medical Centre – starts Monday 6th October, 5.30pm-6.30pm
- Lowestoft, Kirkley Centre – starts Tuesday 14th October, Tuesday evenings 6.30pm-7.30pm
- Online sessions available Mondays 10-11am or Tuesdays 5.30-6.30pm
Booking is essential for all groups, and the information will be regularly updated on the Feel Good Suffolk website.
For more information and to sign up for a group stop smoking programme, visit www.feelgoodsuffolk.co.uk/Stoptober
For more information, visit www.feelgoodsuffolk.co.uk, email us at feelgoodsuffolk@suffolk.gov.uk or call 0345 603 4060.
