Quit smoking in 2026 with free local support

In 2025, a Censuswide survey found that a whopping 53% of UK smokers had committed to quit as a New Year resolution. Anyone who has tried to quit a bad habit, or even develop a good one, will know just how difficult it can be. But if you are a smoker and want to quit in 2026, help is at hand!

Smokefree Lancashire is offering free, friendly, and effective support through a network of local community hubs across Lancaster and Morecambe. With expert guidance, practical tools, and support from trained stop‑smoking advisors and ex‑smokers, Lancaster district residents are being encouraged to make this the year they leave tobacco behind for good.

These hubs are running at community venues across the district, including Stanleys Community Centre and Bay Veterans Association in Morecambe, and Positive Futures, Marsh Community Centre, Skerton Community Centre, St Chad’s Church Hall, and The Cornerstone in Lancaster.

Each of these hubs offers one‑to‑one support, nicotine‑replacement products, personalised plans, and regular check‑ins to give you the best chance of quitting successfully.

Councillor Mandy Bannon, cabinet member with responsibility for Communities, Well-being, and Partnerships, said:

“Every year, people make New Year’s resolutions with the best of intentions, but sticking to them can be tough without the right support. Quitting smoking is one of the best gifts someone can give themselves and their family. It means more energy, better health, and extra money in their pocket each month.”

Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable illness, but research consistently shows that those who access professional stop‑smoking services are three times more likely to quit successfully than those who try to quit unaided.

The financial benefits are also significant. The average 10 a day smoker could save an average of £172 every month by quitting – money that makes a real difference with the  cost‑of‑living pressures that are being felt by most families.

Alongside expert advice and practical support, many of the community hubs also offer free activities to help people on their smoke-free journey.

Marsh Community Centre runs a welcoming wellbeing group and a weekly walk, providing encouragement and companionship for anyone looking to quit, while More Music will soon launch “Monday Morning Melodies”, a new singing for health session at Morecambe Library.

You can find your nearest hub and book a session by visiting www.lancaster.gov.uk/smoke-free