Have a smokefree New Year Quitting smoking will be at the top of many people’s New Year’s resolution list. Bucks Smokefree Support Service (BSSS) is encouraging smokers to plan ahead and use the free support and tools available to them prepare to stop smoking in order to have the best chance of keeping their New Year’s resolution.

Research has shown that smokers who use their local NHS Smokefree Support Service are up to four times more likely to successful quit smoking than if they go it alone. Bucks Smokefree Support Service is encouraging smokers to use the free support and tools they offer to help them through their quit journey. BSSS has also put together top 10 tips to help quitters stay on track. Val Mills, leader of BSSS, said: “New Year is a natural time when people think about quitting smoking. Wanting to stop smoking is all about preparation and seeking the correct advice and support to give yourself the best chance of success.

“I would urge all smokers wanting to quit to contact the Bucks Smokefree Support Service to find out about the free help that is available. We can offer advice, support and a tailored approach to give every smoker the best chance of being successful.”

There are still around 1.4 million people who smoke across the South East and we know that about 65% of those would like to give up. So if your friends or loved ones are thinking of quitting in 2011 see what you can do to help them prepare and stay quit in those tricky first few days and weeks.

Les Merryweather, who quit using the Bucks Smokefree Support Service in March 2010, said: "If you want to stop smoking - just do it, don't keep thinking there will be a better time. Contact the Bucks Smokefree Support Service, they're the experts!"

For help quitting, please call Bucks Smokefree Support Service on 0845 270 7222, e-mail stopsmoking@buckspct.nhs.uk or visit the website at www.smokescape.org, to find out about the range of free NHS support available.

Bucks Smokefree Support Service has provided these top ten tips to help you stay on track: 1. Get support from our trained BSSS advisers who can help you to understand your addiction and how to beat it.

2. Identify your smoking triggers and plan ahead. Try the Addiction Test at http://www.smokescape.org/?page_id=129 3. Use nicotine replacement products or other stop smoking medicines to cope with the withdrawal symptoms. These are available on prescription from the NHS.

4. Avoid situations where you might be tempted to smoke again. Plan ahead to cope with the hard times.

5. Note how much cash you’re saving. Work out how long it will take you to save for your dream purchase by using the calculator on http://smokefree.nhs.uk/quit-tools/cost-calculator/ 6. Use a carbon monoxide monitor to see for yourself how quickly your body recovers once you stop smoking. BSSS offer carbon monoxide monitoring as part of its stop smoking programmes.

7. Throw out your ashtrays, matches, lighters and anything else you need to smoke. Put potpourri or air fresheners where your ashtrays used to be – your home will smell fresher in no time at all.

8. Change your usual daily routine to counteract your old smoking triggers. Do something to help you relax such as taking a walk, reading or having a hot bath.

9. Sign up for free text and email alerts from the Together Programme with motivational tips and advice to keep you on track http://smokefree.nhs.uk/what-suits-me/support-at-home/index.php .

10. But most importantly, take it one day at a time and reward yourself every day- you deserve it.

Based on information supplied by Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust.