Page Last updated 13-01-2009
1. It is important that the PCT continues to invest in the Stop Smoking Service to ensure that stop smoking support is offered to those who have most to gain from stopping. This will impact on reducing health inequalities. Elements of the action plan that are likely to increase the number of smoking quitters should be strengthened in the short term. These include increasing access to stop smoking services particularly in the more deprived areas, through General Practices, Pharmacies and other key community venues.
2. Investment in the communication strategy for tobacco control, including the use of Social Marketing tools is essential to facilitate target groups of smokers (e.g. routine and manual workers; smokers from deprived areas) to stop smoking. Newcastle will be participating in the North of Tyne and regional communication strategies.
3. The funding of the regional office for tobacco control - Fresh, is important and must be continued. Fresh provides a comprehensive strategic direction for effective tobacco control at a regional and local level which is now being modelled elsewhere in England.
4. The PCT also needs to continue to support the community services directorate through the Health Improvement Team, to take a lead role in delivering the tobacco control agenda in Newcastle.