Right place, right time-Ralph’s story

Ralph joined the Leeds Stop Smoking service to support his health with an upcoming operation. Hear in his own words what motivated him to quit, how he did it, and how he feels being smoke free.

“I had tried to quit previously, using patches but found l was still smoking with patches on. Being able to see a Health Coach there and then while l was at St James who talked me through my options was extremely helpful. My Health Coach encouraged me to stop smoking along with options for support that could work for me.

Should I have come home without talking to her, then l don't thing l would have done anything about my smoking.”

Our Health Coaches use the latest, evidenced-based behavioural change, support and medication to help people quit smoking for good. Our sessions can be delivered as one-to-one, or as part of a group of other people working towards the same goal.

“Originally, I choose tablets, but they did not work for me and through further conversations with my Health Coach, she encouraged me to try a vape. Without the support at this stage when the tablets where not working, I would probably not have chosen another method and gone back to smoking. But with her support, I went with the recommendation to try another method. Support from my Health Coach has been the key to keep me trying another method.

“I didn’t attend group sessions but instead had support from my Health Coach weekly with the offer that should I be struggling, was to contact her should I need to.

Stopping smoking is one of the best things that you can do for your health. We are trained and equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge to help you succeed.

“I have now reached my four-week quit and am starting to see the benefits of not smoking. On top of that, I am feeling better within myself. I have no intentions of going back to the way I was and intend to stay smoke free by doing what I am currently doing.

“The service has been invaluable to me, and I think because it happened there and then at the hospital when I needed it.”