For more information on stopping smoking click here
Register for Hertfordshire's Stop Smoking Service
at http://www.smokefreehertfordshire.nhs.uk/
- Phone number: 0800 389 3998
- Text "QUIT" to 07800 001 337 (and they will call you back)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get on to a course? Depending on your choice of venue it could be anything from one day to a couple of weeks.
Will I have to quit straight away? No. Depending on your choice of treatment it will generally be a week or two before you quit, but you can decide when your quit date will be and it can be on the day you first see an adviser.
Do I need to prepare anything before my quit attempt? No. Some people find it useful to make some simple changes to their routine - like only smoking outside. Telling family and friends what you are planning to do is a good way of getting support and encouragement too.
Will I receive anything to help with my quit attempt? You will receive up to 12 weeks worth of Nicotine Replacement Therapy on prescription. If you decide to use one of the prescription only medicines, we will provide you with a letter for your GP to prescribe them for you. All of the support and advice that you will receive will be absolutely free.
How long do I need to attend for? Once a week for at least 5 weeks – but you can have telephone appointments instead of attending the clinic if that's more convenient.
What's the success rate? Our success rate is generally above 50%.
Can I go with a friend? Quitting together with friends or partners gives you that extra support and is a very good idea.
Is it like an AA meeting? No. The courses are informal, friendly and supportive.
If I had a slip up and had a cigarette, would that mean I wouldn't be able to attend the course anymore? Of course not. Lots of people have several attempts before they successfully quit. We would say it's completely normal, it's happened but we shall draw a line under it and start a fresh.
What happens if I don't quit after the course? We would advise you to come back and try again when you feel ready.
What happens after the course? Do I get anymore support? You can usually have an appointment after the course has finished, but you may want to call your adviser instead.
Will NRT affect any medication I am already on? Nicotine Replacement Therapy shouldn't affect any other medications. Some medications are affected just by quitting smoking. Your adviser will be able to discuss this with you. Take along a list of your medications to your first appointment.
How long should I take NRT for? You should use Nicotine Replacement Therapy for up to 12 weeks. Occasionally people use it for longer – but this is unusual and you can buy it from any pharmacy.
What happens if I miss a session? Will I have to start again? No you won't need to start again, just phone us to let us know if you can’t make it. You can come along to the next session. If you need any advice or another prescription just call us on 0800 389 3 998 and someone in the office will be able to help.
How much will it cost for me to join? Our service is completely free, the courses and all the advice and support are free. The only cost will be a prescription charge for the products that you choose. If you do not normally pay for your prescriptions then you won’t need to pay for any stop smoking treatments either.
What happens after the course? Do I get anymore support? Should you feel like you need extra support, you can book another appointment to see your stop smoking advisor, or you can call the helpline on 0800 389 3 998 with any questions you may have.