QUESTIONS ANSWERS

Below are a few common questions we are asked which you may find useful:

How long does it take to get on to a course?
Depending on your choice of support, 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 support it will generally be week 3 or if it is a one-to-one, you will decide when your quit date will be.

Do I need to prepare anything before my quit attempt?
You will receive confirmation of your booking,

Will I receive anything to help with my quit attempt?
You will receive 12 weeks worth of Nicotine Replacement Therapy on prescription. Or if you would like to try the new prescription tablets, 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 7 weeks.

What's the success rate?
Our success rate is generally 60-70%

Have the advisors ever smoked before?
Many of our advisors have previously smoked and all of them understand how difficult giving up smoking is.

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. Most of our advisors are ex smokers themselves.

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 take a break and come back and try again when you feel ready.

What happens after the course? Do I get anymore support?
There are drop-ins available if you still feel you need some extra support. We also have a patient involvement group that your advisor will give you information on.

Will NRT affect any medication I am already on?
Nicotine Replacement Therapy shouldn't affect any other medications. However if you have any doubts or queries then contact your GP.

How long should I take NRT for?
We advise that you should take Nicotine Replacement Therapy for 12 weeks. However if you feel like you need more after the 12 weeks, 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 come along to the next session. If you need any advice or another prescription just call the 0800 number 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.