The NHS Stop Smoking service has teamed up with local housing association, Paragon, to help smokers quit. The aim is to encourage quitting by providing local, accessible support to people living in or visiting Grangemouth. The Health Promotions Service will run a weekly drop in session in Paragon’s offices offering one to one support. It is open to anyone, not just Paragon tenants.

Yvonne Pringle from NHS Forth Valley Stop Smoking Service said: “Giving up smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and it will also save you money too! If you normally spend around £8.50 a day on cigarettes, stop smoking and you’ll have over £250 in your pocket after the first month. Our clinic is free, by coming along to get help and support you are 4 times more likely to stop smoking and stay stopped.

“Also if you are using an Electronic Cigarette and would like support or even just some advice, why not pop along to the Paragon office and see one of our specially trained advisers, it’s not just cigarettes we can help with but other Tobacco products too.”

The service was launched by Grangemouth councillor Bailie Joan Paterson who is also a member of Paragon’s management committee.

Joan said: “This is a great idea – Paragon is based locally in the town centre and has lots of visitors – tenants, local residents and people looking for housing so being able to access other services such as the Stop Smoking service is ideal.

“We know from feedback from tenants that they are interested in health issues and being able to team up with the NHS gives people a real chance to find out about the service, get valuable support from it practically on their doorsteps. It’s a brilliant opportunity. Paragon has properties throughout the Forth Valley and, if this proves a success, we are looking at a wider promotion of the service in other areas where we work.”

The Stop Smoking Support Service advisors will be available in Paragon’s offices every Thursday 1 pm till 4 pm until 31st of March 2016. It is open to anyone who wants to stop smoking and there is no need to make an appointment.