Free quit-smoking support launched for Torbay residents on No Smoking Day

Torbay residents looking to quit smoking can now access six months of free premium support through the Smoke Free app to mark No Smoking Day.

Around 15,000 adults in Torbay currently smoke, with around a third working in routine and manual occupations or living with long-term mental health conditions.

The app offers round-the-clock access to trained stop-smoking advisers, providing immediate help whenever cravings occur. Users can track their progress, including how many days they have been smoke free, how much money they have saved and the benefits to their health.

Those using the service can also choose to receive a free vape or nicotine replacement therapy delivered to their home if that is their preferred way to quit.

Weekly check-ins with an adviser are also available to help users stay motivated and make the best use of their quit aids.

The app includes a range of features designed to support people through the process of quitting, including moderated community chat groups, practical missions, progress indicators, tips for managing cravings and a distraction game. Users can also earn badges and prizes when they reach certain milestones and contact an AI quit coach for quick advice.

Hayley Tranter, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health and Inequalities at Torbay Council, said: “Smoking is still one of the biggest causes of preventable illness and death. Giving up can improve your health, general wellbeing and be good for you bank balance too.

“Everyone stands to gain from giving up, but benefits can be especially meaningful for those experiencing high levels of stress, who are living with other long-term health conditions, who work in physically demanding jobs or who may be struggling to make ends meet.

“No Smoking Day is always a good time to quit but breaking the habit can be difficult. Smokers need all the tools at their disposal to help them. The Smoke Free app is literally at their fingertips so having access to something 24/7 that can benefit your health and save you money is a good place to start.”

The premium features of the app normally cost £60, but residents in Torbay can access them free of charge by entering their postcode.