Slimmers get NHS help to quit cigs

NEW Year slimmers are being encouraged to roll two resolutions into one and give up smoking too under a new NHS programme.

The Scottish Government has entered into a partnership with Scottish Slimmers to offer advice on stopping smoking alongside their weekly weight-loss sessions.

Public health minister Shona Robison said: "This is particularly relevant as many people fear they'll actually put on weight if they give up smoking so might put off the decision to quit.

"However, with the right support, dieters can give up too and get twice the benefit for their health.

"This partnership with Scottish Slimmers is another example of how many and varied ways there are to quit smoking.

"Giving up smoking is the biggest single thing anyone can do to improve their health but you're more likely to succeed if you get help, rather than relying on willpower alone.

"There's a huge range of support available - from face-to-face or online to nicotine replacement therapy and group classes - and Smokeline can help you find the quit method that's right for you."

Alexandra Howie, marketing director at Scottish Slimmers, said the combined support of Scottish Slimmers and Smokeline would lead to a greater number of people improving their health.

She added: "New year is the ideal time to identify simple ways to improve health such as giving up smoking or losing weight."