Stoptober 2025 Returns to Cornwall and Isles of Scilly with Focus on Quitting Together

Stoptober is back this October for its 14th year, with Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly joining the national campaign under the theme “Let’s Quit Together”. The message is clear: quitting is easier when it’s done with others.

Since 2012, Stoptober has helped millions of people attempt to quit smoking during the month of October. This year the focus is on community support, encouraging friends, families, colleagues and online groups to unite in the challenge.

Local Support in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly

NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly chief medical officer, Dr Chris Reid, said:
“We know quitting isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it on your own. Stoptober is the perfect opportunity to get support and take that first step towards a healthier, smoke-free future.

“In Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly there is a wealth of local support to help you quit. So even if you don’t have a friend, colleague or family member who can stop smoking alongside you, your community network can help.”

Healthy Cornwall’s Stop Smoking Service is offering free 1-2-1 support, group sessions and advice on nicotine replacement therapy. More details are available at www.healthycornwall.org.uk or by calling 01872 324200.

New Features for Stoptober 2025

This year’s campaign introduces fresh tools to make quitting more accessible:

• Enhanced digital support: The revamped Stoptober app includes a quit tracker, savings calculator, expert advice, and daily motivation.

• Peer support networks: Online communities and local events with Healthy Cornwall will help people share experiences and celebrate successes.

• Tailored resources: Free personalised support through text messages, email coaching and WhatsApp.

You can download the app and access resources via the NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/.

The Benefits of Stopping

Research shows that if you can quit smoking for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to quit for good. The health benefits start almost immediately:

• After 20 minutes, your heart rate begins to return to normal.

• After 48 hours, carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body.

• After 2–12 weeks, circulation improves.

• After 1 year, the risk of heart disease is halved.

• After 10 years, the risk of lung cancer is cut to half that of a smoker’s.

With support available both locally and nationally, this October could be the turning point for many across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.