Smoker’s journey to quitting ‘life-changing’ thanks to support

10 February 2026

For one smoker who took part in a stop smoking programme, quitting the habit for good has led to a range of life-changing benefits. 

Aaron, aged 34 years old, had been a smoker for 20 years, and was getting though between 40 and 60 cigarettes a day – spending about £100 a week on tobacco.

But finding out about North Northamptonshire Council’s stop smoking support service from his doctor was a huge turning point in his life.

Aaron said: “Smoking, for me, was a social thing that just spiralled. I was smoking between 40 and 60 cigarettes a day, but desperately wanted to stop because I knew doing so would massively benefit my health.”

North Northamptonshire Council offers up to 12 weeks of free support to help people stop smoking, with its advisors helping smokers to develop a ‘quit plan’ with e-cigarettes and nicotine replacement therapy sent straight to their door. Smokers are three times more likely to stop smoking if they use the service.

“The worst thing about trying to quit was the cravings” Aaron said, “but getting the nicotine replacements, such as patches and gum, delivered to me made a big difference. The stop smoking service support calls were also really beneficial; I was really happy with the support I got. The staff were great, and without that support I definitely would’ve struggled.”

Aaron said that since quitting smoking his health is significantly improving, and he has much more money in his pocket. He is looking forward to spending the extra money, he no longer spends on cigarettes, on more holidays.  

“I’d definitely recommend using the service for others if they need help to stop smoking”, he said, “It’s made a huge difference to my life.”

Find out how the Stop Smoking Service could help you, or someone you know, by visiting North Northamptonshire Council’s website.