People all over the city will be urged to ‘Stub it Out’ this Wednesday 12th March as the nation is encouraged to take part in a no-smoking day.
The day aims to help smokers kick the habit in order to improve their health, as well as raising awareness of the dangers associated with smoking.
Many specialist organisations helping people to stop smoking will make themselves heard as they campaign around the country in order to give advice and provide help for people trying to quit.
Liverpool’s own charity, Roy Castle FagEnds, will set up a booth around popular supermarket chains in the city to allow people to come forward if they information on how to quit.
The national no smoking day began on Ash Wednesday in 1984 after being started by a charity which was later merged with the British Heart Foundation. It was part of a government plan to help raise awareness of the dangers of smoking and the campaign has lasted more than 30 years.
Ever since the start, there have been many changes in the law to help cut out the temptation of smoking. Cigarette companies are no longer allowed to advertise in the UK and the tax on smoking packages has soared, making it an expensive habit.
But what do people in Liverpool think about the issue?
Grace Dawson, 28, a sales assistant from Croxteth, said: “I’ve been smoking for nine years and I find it really really hard to stop. I’m not sure the no-smoking day will do anything for me.”
Anneka Klementewicz, 23, a waitress from Liverpool, said: “I don’t know about the no-smoking day. I smoke because I’m used to it. I find it very expensive here, so maybe I will quit soon.”
Abbey Caulfield, 34, an events fund aiser from Childwall, said: “There is already loads of advice on how to stop smoking. I’ve been smoking for a long time and I’ve tried to stop but I’ve only lasted a few weeks and then I start again. I’ll be taking part in the no-smoking day along with a few of the girls at work and we’re hoping to stop it for good.”
Owen Jenkins, 32, a nightclub manager from Dingle, said: “The no smoking day is great because it encourages people to stop. I’m more of a social smoker so I don’t really think it affects me much.”