Ninety community pharmacy staff from Powys and Betsi Cadwaladr Health Boards recently attended a joint training session updating staff on top tips to support smokers in their quit attempts.

Tessa Craig (Principal Public Health Practitioner in Powys) said: ‘We were thrilled to see a high number of attendees which reflects the interest and passion dedicated to reducing the number of smokers within our communities in Wales.’ 

Further training is planned to help increase the confidence in staff in delivering this service for their clients.

And in January, the Powys Public Health Team ran a competition for pharmacies to advertise the support they provide for quitting smoking. 

Nine promotional window displays were entered and Presteigne Pharmacy won the competition. They received a hamper of local produce to share amongst the staff.

Ceri Peate (Clinical Lead for Smoking Cessation in Powys) said ‘Presteigne pharmacy staff were extremely creative with their eye-catching display, having large imitation cigarettes on display, as well as their own posters showing the impact on the oral cavity. Their passion is obvious.’

Staff at Presteigne pharmacy commented that the display generated local interest and they have had an increase in customers requesting support since the display was put up.

The health benefits of stopping smoking are immediate. To anyone who has struggled to quit, do not feel alone - the service is on hand to support you.

You can find more information about services offered by your local pharmacies here: https://pthb.nhs.wales/services/pharmacy-and-medicines-management/public/community-pharmacypharmaceutical-services/

Additionally individuals can self-refer for help to quit via https://www.helpmequit.wales/ 

Please email StopSmoking.Powys(at)wales.nhs.uk with any queries.