Menu
27/09/2004
Helpline receives 10,000 quit smoking calls
Around 10, 000 calls have been made to Northern Ireland’s smokers’ helpline since it was established last year, the Health Promotion Agency (HPA) said today.
The figure was highlighted during the launch of the HPA’s 13th Annual Report today. The helpline, which was set up in January 2003, has been contacted by thousands of smokers seeking support, as well as information and advice on how they can stop smoking.
Speaking during the launch, Dr Brian Gaffney, Chief Executive of the HPA, said: “Tobacco control remains one of our key priorities. We know that smokers need a lot of help and support if they want to stay quit. The helpline, which is staffed by trained counsellors who can direct callers to stop smoking groups in their area, and provide advice and support over the phone, can be contacted by calling 0800 85 85 85."
Today's report highlighted the HPA’s commitment to cross-sectoral partnerships as well as ongoing work in the areas of drugs and alcohol, nutrition, breastfeeding, physical activity, sexual health, mental health and health protection.
Dr Gaffney concluded: “This year’s work has been completed with the prospect of significant change in public health and health promotion. Major reviews of the public health function and the structure of public administration are likely to reinforce the public health agenda and will provide new challenges and opportunities for all of us who are working to promote the health of the public in Northern Ireland.”
(MB/GMCG)
The figure was highlighted during the launch of the HPA’s 13th Annual Report today. The helpline, which was set up in January 2003, has been contacted by thousands of smokers seeking support, as well as information and advice on how they can stop smoking.
Speaking during the launch, Dr Brian Gaffney, Chief Executive of the HPA, said: “Tobacco control remains one of our key priorities. We know that smokers need a lot of help and support if they want to stay quit. The helpline, which is staffed by trained counsellors who can direct callers to stop smoking groups in their area, and provide advice and support over the phone, can be contacted by calling 0800 85 85 85."
Today's report highlighted the HPA’s commitment to cross-sectoral partnerships as well as ongoing work in the areas of drugs and alcohol, nutrition, breastfeeding, physical activity, sexual health, mental health and health protection.
Dr Gaffney concluded: “This year’s work has been completed with the prospect of significant change in public health and health promotion. Major reviews of the public health function and the structure of public administration are likely to reinforce the public health agenda and will provide new challenges and opportunities for all of us who are working to promote the health of the public in Northern Ireland.”
(MB/GMCG)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
25 October 2024
Health Minister Unveils New Initiative To Tackle Health Inequalities
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced the launch of Live Better, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing health inequalities in Northern Ireland. The program will initially focus on neighbourhoods in Belfast and L'Derry, with plans to expand to other communities if successful.
Health Minister Unveils New Initiative To Tackle Health Inequalities
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced the launch of Live Better, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing health inequalities in Northern Ireland. The program will initially focus on neighbourhoods in Belfast and L'Derry, with plans to expand to other communities if successful.
23 November 2011
No Smoking Day Details Outlined
A conference has heard that smokers across Northern Ireland are to be again urged to break free from their smoking habit. That was the challenge set this week by the No Smoking Day team and the Ulster Cancer Foundation at a regional conference to brief health professionals in preparation for No Smoking Day – Wednesday 14th March 2012.
No Smoking Day Details Outlined
A conference has heard that smokers across Northern Ireland are to be again urged to break free from their smoking habit. That was the challenge set this week by the No Smoking Day team and the Ulster Cancer Foundation at a regional conference to brief health professionals in preparation for No Smoking Day – Wednesday 14th March 2012.
03 September 2008
Changes Loom On Health Care
News of a radical shake-up proposed for health and social care in Belfast is not the only changes afoot as the way that health promotion is delivered across Northern Ireland is also being changed.
Changes Loom On Health Care
News of a radical shake-up proposed for health and social care in Belfast is not the only changes afoot as the way that health promotion is delivered across Northern Ireland is also being changed.
05 July 2024
DoH Calls For Views On New Health Protection Measures
The Department of Health has launched a consultation asking for views on new health protection measures, being implemented through a Public Health Bill to replace the current Public Health Act (Northern Ireland) 1967.
DoH Calls For Views On New Health Protection Measures
The Department of Health has launched a consultation asking for views on new health protection measures, being implemented through a Public Health Bill to replace the current Public Health Act (Northern Ireland) 1967.
29 September 2021
£8.7m Boost For Mental Health Services
Charitable and community mental health services are set to benefit from a new £8.7 million support grant, Health Minister Robin Swann has announced.
£8.7m Boost For Mental Health Services
Charitable and community mental health services are set to benefit from a new £8.7 million support grant, Health Minister Robin Swann has announced.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
