Wandsworth is intensifying its efforts to eliminate smoking, focusing on targeted support and prevention, according to the annual director of public health report presented at the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting on Thursday. The report highlights the need to address smoking-related inequalities and provide tailored support to priority populations to help them quit.
The borough currently has one of the lowest smoking prevalence rates in England, with 7.8% of adults smoking, which is lower than the national average. The council aims to reduce this to 5% or less by 2030, tracking progress using the Public Health Outcomes Framework.
Shannon Katiyo, Director of Public Health, and Benjamin Humphrey, Senior Public Health Lead, presented the report on making smoking obsolete. The report underscores the council's commitment to achieving a smoke-free borough by 2030. Katiyo noted the report's insights into why people continue to smoke despite knowing the risks, citing addiction, stress relief, social connection, enjoyment, and cultural or family influences.
While Wandsworth has seen a decline in smoking rates, progress has been uneven across different groups. Benjamin Humphrey emphasized the importance of focusing on priority populations, including pregnant women, people in routine and manual occupations, and those with mental health conditions. He also noted a decline in the number of people accessing stop smoking services, highlighting the need for more targeted interventions. Partnerships between the council and the NHS will ensure multiple pathways into stop smoking services, which can be accessed both at home and in the community.
Temi Fasir, All Age Mental Health Transformation Lead, suggested tailoring stop smoking campaigns to people experiencing mental health conditions and exploring opportunities for targeted initiatives in the community. This targeted approach aims to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues who are trying to quit. The council will provide tailored and compassionate support to people in priority groups who struggle to quit.
The report also highlighted the importance of prevention, particularly among young people. Efforts will be made to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and vaping, discouraging young people from ever starting.
The Health and Wellbeing Board agreed to note the report and consider a seminar to further discuss the issue, recognising the importance of making smoking obsolete in Wandsworth.