Smoking cessation
In response to studies showing higher than average smoking rates within Somali, Polish and Turkish communities, Commissioning Support for London (CSL) carried out a targeted research project in July 2009.
Through broad and varied engagement they explored these communities’ behaviours and attitudes towards smoking in order to understand why their smoking levels are raised.
A cross-community report was also published in October 2009, exploring smokers’ awareness of and preferences for support when they are quitting. This identified what help and support would appeal to, and best suit, quitters and helped inform the provision of Stop Smoking Services.
Recruitment to stop smoking services previously occurred at three levels; national, regional and local. The vast majority of recruitment is at a local level involving Stop Smoking Services working with GP practices, pharmacies and acute settings amongst others.
CSL evaluated the effectiveness of different promotional activities for services such as roving and static stands in supermarkets by looking at elements such as cost per person who uses the services as a result. These campaigns were run by the London Regional Public Health Group (RPHG).
CSL has also produced a summary of lessons learned from London regional recruitment campaigns and case studies detailing innovation and recruitment at a local level.
