Along the way, they will receive support and encouragement every step of the way from some of the nation’s top comedians. To stand an even better chance of quitting, Suffolk residents are encouraged to sign up with their friends, family and colleagues, as evidence reveals that this type of collective quitting can dramatically improve people’s chances of successfully stopping. Research shows that smokers are two thirds (67%) more likely to quit when their spouse stops smoking, and a third more likely to quit when a close friend (36%) or someone they work with (34%) stops. The data also show that individuals are much more likely (61%) to smoke if their partner or a close friend smokes – demonstrating the powerful influence that people’s social networks have on their own smoking behaviour. This year, Stoptober will be providing quitters with a personal touch from some of the nation’s leading comedians – Bill Bailey, Rhod Gilbert, Al Murray and Shappi Khorsandi. Messages of support and encouragement will be sent straight to quitters’ phones and emails throughout October. Over a quarter of a million people across the country signed up to Stoptober last year with more than half making it to 28 days; this year, it is expected the campaign will welcome the millionth sign up. By stopping smoking for 28 days you are five times more likely to stop for good.
Stoptober will be providing people with more engaging and personalised support than ever. As such, it represents a great opportunity for those trying to give up smoking to give it a real go, and with more help along the way.