NHS Quit Your Way Service - Dumfries & Galloway

11/06/2026

Our latest information briefing explores the link between smoking and risk of developing dementia.

🧠 Do you want to know how quitting smoking could reduce your risk of dementia? Take a look at the briefing on our website -https://bit.ly/4eTLdEa

21/05/2026

How do we measure the harm of smoking when it’s linked to so many diseases?

Measuring its impact is more complicated than you might think. Our latest blog explains:

🔹 How we estimate the proportion of deaths and illnesses linked to smoking
🔹 Why we’ve updated our approach using the latest evidence
🔹 Why new estimates are lower — and what that really means

Read the full blog on our website ⬇️
https://publichealthscotland.scot/our-blog/2026/may/analysing-smoking-harms-new-statistics-using-up-to-date-evidence/

19/05/2026

19/05/2026

⭐️ CLIENT STORY ⭐️
I smoked for 36 years and had tried to quit before, but this time felt different. What really helped me succeed was using the ni****ne patches and inhalator – they made a big difference in managing cravings.
Since stopping smoking, I’ve noticed a real improvement in my health. I no longer have pain in my lungs, which is such a relief. I’ve also put on a bit of weight, which is actually a positive for me as I had been quite underweight. On top of that, saving money has been a great benefit too.
To anyone thinking about quitting, I would say – give it a try. I never thought I would be able to do it, but I’m so proud of myself for stopping.
I found the Stop Smoking Service incredibly helpful. Laura was fantastic and encouraged me every step of the way. I really appreciated having the same person contact me, as it made the support feel more personal.

Eileen
Aged 57

13/05/2026

Lung cancer is now the leading cause of premature death in women in Scotland.
If you smoke, it's never too late to stop - and you don't have to do it alone. Get in touch for free support

05/05/2026

**ng is disrupting Scottish schools, impacting attendance, behaviour and staff workload, according to new research led by and the Scottish Centre for Social Research.

Pupils report leaving lessons, missing classes, and even developing regular routines around va**ng during the school day. Some openly describe signs of ni****ne dependence and associated health effects.

At the same time, school staff are navigating increasing disruption - from managing truancy to monitoring toilets and school grounds - often with limited resources and confidence in addressing newer ni****ne products.

Find out more: https://brnw.ch/21x2cqB

05/05/2026

⭐️ CLIENT STORY ⭐️
After smoking for 35 years, I had tried to quit before but was unsuccessful. This time was different. With the help of Varenicline tablets, the cravings were taken away and I finally felt in control instead of constantly battling the urge to smoke.
Since stopping smoking, the benefits have been clear. I’ve got more money in my pocket, my wheezing has stopped, and best of all, I no longer smell of stale to***co.
To anyone thinking about quitting, my advice is simple: do it – it’s worth the effort. With the right support and treatment, quitting is achievable, and the benefits really do start straight away. Thank you to Rebecca at the Quit Your Way team for all of your help.

Jonathan
Aged 51

22/04/2026

Please look at this landmark measure in detail! It will be illegal to sell to***co products to anyone born on or after 1st January 2009!! This approach aims to stop young people from ever starting 🙏

The To***co and Vapes Bill has completed the Westminster parliamentary process and is now ready for Royal Assent.

Our CEO Sheila Duffy said "We are delighted that strong measures in the To***co and Vapes Bill will soon become reality as they can be truly transformative and must be implemented without delay."

Read more - https://bit.ly/4sRnNCT

20/04/2026

⭐️ CLIENT STORY ⭐️
I smoked for over 40 years and had tried quitting before. This time, I was successful with the same help from Quit Your Way. Having that support behind me really made a difference when I needed it. The benefits of stopping smoking have been clear. I’ve saved money, but more importantly my health has improved. My outlook is much more positive, especially when it comes to exercise, and I feel fitter than I have in many years.
If you really want to quit, it’s easier than you think. Having a support mechanism in place is extremely helpful. After more than 40 years of smoking, I decided one day to change, and I’m still smoke‑free.
I’d like to thank Rebecca at Quit Your Way for her help and non‑judgemental approach. It genuinely made a difference during the times I needed support.

John
Aged 59

16/04/2026

⭐️ CLIENT STORY ⭐️
I had been a smoker for 54 years and had tried to quit once or twice before, but without success. This time was different. After a doctor’s appointment, I was told very clearly that I needed to stop smoking or face serious consequences. My family also urged me to quit, as smoking was badly affecting my health. I finally listened — and I am so glad I did. My health has returned, and I feel great.
The benefits of stopping smoking have been enormous. I can get up in the morning without spending the first half hour coughing and spluttering. I can enjoy my food again and go out for walks without having to stop after five minutes because I’m out of breath. The best part of all is that my two young grandchildren are incredibly proud of me.
To other smokers thinking about quitting, I would say: go for it. I know it can be hard, but the rewards are more than worth it. If I can do it, anyone can — you just need the willpower to start and the determination to stick with it.
I was supported throughout my journey by Laura from the Quit Your Way team, and she played a huge part in my success. Laura was brilliant — she showed genuine understanding and patience. She initially started me on patches, but when I told her they weren’t working and were causing problems, she immediately changed my treatment to another option, which worked for me. Laura phoned me every week to see how I was getting on. These calls were incredibly helpful, and her encouragement was infectious. I knew within myself that I didn’t want to let her down. I last spoke with Laura on Monday and probably won’t speak with her again, but she played such a significant role in helping me quit, and I want to thank her very much indeed.
Thanks to Laura and the support I received, I feel so blooming great again.

Brian
Aged 70