NHS Fife is supporting people in the Cowdenbeath area to improve their health and finances in the run-up to Christmas.

The health board is hosting a free Stop Smoking Group at Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre, which will run for seven weeks and meets for the first time on Tuesday 4th November.

Figures from ISD Scotland show that over 73,000 people in the Kingdom smoke.

Statistics show that by accessing support, these smokers are four times more likely to quit for good. Moreover, the average smoker can save around £1700 every year by kicking their habit – money that could pay for a Christmas to remember in 2014.

The Cowdenbeath based Stop Smoking Group is the latest initiative supporting people across Fife to give up. Programmes such as Quit 4 Life, which is aimed at pregnant women and their partners, and Quit Fit, which combines stop smoking support with free access to the gyms and swimming pools at participating leisure centre’s, are provided by NHS Fife to help tackle tobacco dependence across the region.

Commenting, Stop Smoking Advisor, Catriona Appolinari, said, “This Stop Smoking Group is a fantastic opportunity for smokers to join with other similarly minded people on the path to looking and feeling healthier, and kicking their habit for good.

“It is also important to stress to people that smoking is not just dangerous to the person who is directly inhaling the tobacco. Indeed, passive smoking is a serious health risk and many smokers may not be aware of the risks that they are exposing their loved ones to. Indeed, 85% of second hand smoke is invisible and odourless so simply opening a window or standing at the back door is not enough to protect those around you.” Added Catriona, “Furthermore, as we begin the countdown to Christmas, many people will be starting to look at buying presents for family and friends. The money that a person can save by stopping smoking is considerable, and it can play a role in helping to alleviate some of the financial strains that Christmas can bring.

“Ultimately, I would encourage as many smokers as possible to make their way to Cowdenbeath Leisure Centre and take the first step to becoming happier, healthier, and smoke-free.”